How does Exodus 22:25 guide us in lending money to others today? Setting the Verse in Context Exodus 22–23 records specific applications of the Ten Commandments. In this flow, Exodus 22:25 calls God’s people to treat the vulnerable with dignity: “If you lend money to one of My people among you who is needy, do not treat him like a moneylender; do not charge him interest.” Key Observations from the Text • “One of My people” – The borrower is part of the covenant community; God takes the treatment of His own personally (cp. Acts 9:4). • “Needy” – The command targets those in genuine financial distress, not ordinary business transactions. • “Do not treat him like a moneylender” – The lender must not adopt a harsh, profit-driven stance. • “Do not charge him interest” – The Hebrew word for interest literally means “bite,” picturing injury to the poor. Underlying Principles 1. Compassion over profit (Leviticus 25:35–37). 2. Stewardship under God’s ownership (Psalm 24:1). 3. Protection of the vulnerable (Proverbs 14:31). 4. Witness to God’s generosity (Matthew 5:16). Translating the Command to Today 1. Examine motives • Am I lending to help or to gain? • Does the arrangement relieve or increase pressure? 2. Structure loans to bless • Zero-interest or low-interest terms when the borrower is in genuine need. • Clear, written agreements to prevent confusion (Proverbs 11:15). 3. Build in flexibility • Grace periods, payment adjustments, or even forgiveness when hardship continues (Deuteronomy 15:7–11). 4. Guard against exploitation • No hidden fees, penalties, or tactics that trap the borrower (James 5:4). 5. Engage the heart, not just the wallet • Offer budgeting help, employment leads, and prayerful support (Galatians 6:2). Practical Scenarios • Family or friend facing medical bills: provide an interest-free loan with a realistic repayment schedule. • Church benevolence fund: supply grants or forgivable loans before directing people to high-interest lenders. • Business dealings: it is legitimate to charge interest in normal commerce (Deuteronomy 23:19-20) but not to profiteer from someone’s distress. Why It Matters • Reflects God’s character—He “is gracious and compassionate” (Psalm 145:8). • Displays the gospel—Christ paid our unpayable debt (Colossians 2:13-14). • Stores eternal treasure—“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Summary Takeaways • When the borrower is needy, the lender’s goal is relief, not revenue. • Interest-free or mercy-weighted loans mirror God’s heart. • Wise stewardship and protective love can coexist; both honor the Lord who owns all resources. |
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