How does Exodus 21:9 guide us in treating others with fairness and respect? Setting the Scene Exodus 21 records case laws given right after the Ten Commandments, showing how God expects His covenant people to put love for neighbor into everyday practice. Verse 9 focuses on a vulnerable person—a Hebrew maidservant who might be pledged to marry her master’s son. “ ‘And if he chooses her for his son, he must deal with her as with a daughter.’ ” (Exodus 21:9) What the Verse Teaches • Status change: the servant is no longer viewed as property but as family. • Equal dignity: “as with a daughter” signals full filial rights—protection, provision, honor. • Covenant consistency: the command safeguards marriage and family integrity, reflecting the Lord’s justice. Timeless Principles • God defends the powerless. Any social advantage must be used to elevate, not exploit (Psalm 82:3-4). • Position never cancels personhood. Titles, income, or roles do not determine worth (Genesis 1:27). • Love requires tangible action—legal, financial, and relational safeguards (Deuteronomy 24:14-15). Practical Ways to Live This Out Treat everyone “as with a daughter or son.” • Speak with family-level courtesy—no dismissive language or tone (Ephesians 4:29). • Ensure material fairness—pay promptly, price honestly, share generously (Proverbs 11:1; James 5:4). • Protect emotional and spiritual well-being—never abuse influence, always seek their good (1 Peter 5:3). • Honor commitments—contracts, promises, or expectations are kept rather than minimized (Matthew 5:37). Supporting Passages • Leviticus 19:18 — “Love your neighbor as yourself.” • Matthew 7:12 — “Whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them.” • Colossians 4:1 — “Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, knowing you also have a Master in heaven.” • Romans 12:10 — “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; outdo yourselves in honoring one another.” Key Takeaway Exodus 21:9 presses believers to translate covenant love into concrete fairness. When God moves someone from the margins into “family,” He sets the pattern for us: regard every person with the honor, protection, and provision we naturally give our own sons and daughters. |
    |