In what ways can Exodus 21:2 guide us in treating others with dignity? Verse Focus Exodus 21:2: “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years; but in the seventh year he is to go free, without paying anything.” Why This Matters • Even in an ancient system of servitude, God set a clear limit—six years—highlighting that no human relationship is meant to strip another person of permanent freedom. • The command reflects God’s heart for justice, dignity, and restoration long before modern ideas of human rights emerged. Principles of Dignity Drawn from the Verse • Limited Service, Not Lifelong Bondage – God places a time boundary on servitude, affirming that each person ultimately belongs to Him, not to other people. • Built-in Release and Restoration – The seventh-year release mirrors the Sabbath rhythm (Exodus 20:8-11); rest and renewal are woven into God’s design for everyone, not just the privileged. • Freedom Without Payment – The servant owes nothing at release. True dignity includes freedom granted without strings attached. • Equal Standing Before God – Calling the servant a “Hebrew” stresses shared covenant identity. No one’s worth is less because of economic hardship. Supporting Scriptures • Genesis 1:27: “So God created man in His own image…”—every person bears divine image and deserves respect. • Leviticus 25:42: “For they are My servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt; they must not be sold as slaves.” • Deuteronomy 15:12-15: expands Exodus 21:2, adding that masters should supply their servants generously when sending them out. • Ephesians 6:9: “And masters, do the same to them… knowing that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.” • Colossians 4:1: “Masters, supply your servants with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” Practical Ways to Treat Others with Dignity Today • Respect Time and Boundaries – Avoid relationships or workplace policies that trap people indefinitely. • Release Without Strings – When someone leaves employment, ministry, or a commitment, bless them rather than burden them. • Provide for Transition – Help others start fresh—severance pay, references, mentoring, tangible support. • Recognize Shared Identity – Speak and act as if every coworker, employee, or neighbor is a fellow image-bearer under God’s care. • Promote Rest and Restoration – Encourage rhythms of Sabbath, vacation, and mental health breaks for yourself and those you lead. • Reject Exploitation – Combat practices—labor trafficking, predatory lending, unfair wages—that rob people of freedom. Living It Out Remember: God’s law in Exodus 21:2 was never about endorsing slavery; it was about dignifying people in a fallen world. By honoring limits, ensuring freedom, and meeting needs generously, we mirror the God who sets captives free (Luke 4:18) and proclaim that every person is worthy of respect. |
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