What does "do not mistreat" imply about our behavior towards strangers? Setting the Scene Exodus 22:21 “You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” Key Term—“Do not mistreat” • Heb. yanah — to oppress, wrong, or abuse. • The verb is an absolute prohibition, leaving no room for selective obedience. Immediate Implications Toward Strangers • Never exploit a stranger’s vulnerability for personal gain. • Refuse every form of intimidation, harassment, or unfair advantage. • Guard speech and actions so that no harm—physical, emotional, legal, or economic—touches the outsider through you. Positive Behaviors the Command Implies • Extend protective justice – Deuteronomy 24:17 “Do not deny justice to a foreigner or fatherless child…” • Offer practical hospitality – Hebrews 13:2 “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…” • Provide material help where needed – Leviticus 25:35 “…you are to support him like a foreigner or sojourner, so that he can continue to live among you.” • Speak up when others threaten or demean foreigners – Proverbs 31:8-9 “Open your mouth for the mute… defend the rights of the poor and needy.” • Treat the stranger as a neighbor whose well-being is bound to yours – Luke 10:36-37 The Good Samaritan shows mercy that crosses ethnic lines. Motivation Rooted in Redemption • Israel’s slavery in Egypt (Exodus 22:21b) reminds God’s people they were once helpless strangers delivered solely by grace. • In Christ, Gentiles were “strangers to the covenants” yet brought near (Ephesians 2:12-13). Gratitude for that welcome fuels our own. Heart-Level Takeaways • Compassion replaces suspicion; we remember our own rescue. • Humility keeps us from acting as gatekeepers of worth; God alone grants belonging. • Integrity means consistent kindness whether or not it is reciprocated. Practical Checklist □ Pay fair wages to immigrant laborers (Jeremiah 22:13). □ Offer a meal or ride without expecting repayment (Luke 14:12-14). □ Learn and use a newcomer’s name; affirm personal dignity (Genesis 16:13). □ Advocate when policies or conversations demean outsiders (Isaiah 1:17). □ Invite international students, refugees, or traveling workers into family life (Acts 16:15). Conclusion “Do not mistreat” forbids every act or attitude that harms a stranger and, by implication, calls for proactive, sacrificial care grounded in God’s own treatment of us. Obedience displays His righteous character in a world where foreigners often remain the most vulnerable. |
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