In what ways can we apply the principle of restitution in modern conflicts? Understanding Exodus 21:19 “if he can get up and walk around outside with his staff, then the one who struck him will be cleared. He must pay for the man’s lost time and see that he is completely healed.” (Exodus 21:19) Scripture records a literal requirement: the aggressor covers both lost time (wages) and medical costs until complete recovery. Behind the command stands an unchanging principle—when we cause loss or harm, we owe restoration that is tangible, timely, and sufficient. Restitution in the Wider Biblical Picture Leviticus 6:4-5—full repayment plus 20 percent. Luke 19:8—Zacchaeus offers four-fold repayment and Jesus affirms it (Luke 19:9). Matthew 5:23-24—reconciliation precedes worship. Ephesians 4:28—from stealing to sharing. Romans 12:17-18—repay no one evil for evil; pursue peace. These passages confirm that restitution is not incidental; it is integral to righteous living. Why Restitution Still Matters Reflects God’s justice—loss is acknowledged and addressed, not ignored. Protects relationships—healing the practical breach opens the door for emotional and spiritual healing. Demonstrates repentance—words of apology carry weight when backed by concrete action. Displays the gospel—restoring what we broke mirrors Christ’s work of restoring us. Practical Expressions Today Financial or Property Damage • Replace or repair what was broken. • Cover any additional costs (delivery, installation, fees). • Add something extra when feasible—interest, upgrade, or a gift card—to echo the “plus one-fifth” principle (Leviticus 6:5). Workplace Conflicts • Misused company time or resources? Log extra unpaid hours or reimburse the value. • Harmed a colleague’s reputation? Publicly correct the record and actively promote their success. Relational Wounds • Lies or gossip: confess to all affected parties and speak commendation about the person. • Betrayal of trust: submit to accountability measures the other party requests (regular reports, transparency with passwords, etc.). Community and Social Offenses • Vandalism: fund repairs and volunteer time in the community. • Systemic harm (business error, policy failure): create restitution funds, scholarships, or community programs that benefit those affected. Digital Age Scenarios • Pirated software/music: purchase legitimate copies or donate equivalent value to ministries or charities. • Online slander: delete harmful posts, issue clear public apologies, and highlight the truth in the same forums. Steps to Personal Application 1. Identify the loss—be specific about what was taken, damaged, or diminished. 2. Calculate fair restitution—honest market value, lost wages, fees, interest. 3. Initiate contact—reach out quickly; do not wait to be confronted (Matthew 5:24). 4. Follow through—pay, repair, or serve until the other party agrees the matter is settled. 5. Go beyond the minimum—generosity underscores genuine repentance (Luke 19:8). Heart Checks While Making Restitution • Am I minimizing the harm to protect myself? • Am I acting promptly, or am I delaying and hoping time will erase responsibility? • Am I willing to accept consequences beyond money—such as changed habits, accountability, or public apology? • Am I trusting God to provide for me even while I shoulder the cost of restoring others (Philippians 4:19)? Living Out the Principle Restitution may feel costly, yet it is always cheaper than a wounded conscience and a fractured witness. When believers faithfully restore what they have broken, the world glimpses a Savior who paid an infinite price to make sinners whole. |
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