What principles from Leviticus 25:13 can guide modern Christian financial practices? Setting the scene Leviticus 25 describes Israel’s Year of Jubilee, a once-in-fifty-years reset when land returned to original families, debts were wiped out, and slaves were freed. Verse 13 sums it up: “In this Year of Jubilee, each of you shall return to his own property.” Principles for modern financial practice • Stewardship, not ownership – The land ultimately belonged to the Lord (Leviticus 25:23). – Today, money, possessions, and abilities are still His; we manage them on His behalf (Psalm 24:1; 1 Corinthians 4:2). • Periodic resetting of obligations – God built regular debt release into Israel’s life (Deuteronomy 15:1-2; Leviticus 25:39-41). – Modern believers can plan intentional seasons to reassess debt, forgive where possible, and avoid perpetual bondage (Proverbs 22:7; Romans 13:8). • Protection of family inheritance – The Jubilee safeguarded generational stability. – Christians can prioritize long-term provision for family without exploiting others for gain (Proverbs 13:22; 1 Timothy 5:8). • Limiting accumulation and preventing exploitation – No one could permanently corner the market on land (Leviticus 25:28). – We guard against greed by placing ceilings on personal accumulation and choosing investments that bless, not harm, neighbors (Luke 12:15; 2 Corinthians 8:13-14). • Hope for the marginalized – Jubilee restored slaves and the poor to a fresh start. – Our financial planning should include generosity that gives disadvantaged people a genuine opportunity to rebuild (Isaiah 58:6-7; Ephesians 4:28). Putting it into practice 1. Set a regular “mini-Jubilee” date—annually or every few years—to revisit debts, budgets, and giving goals. 2. Cap consumer debt; aggressively pay it down so it does not outlive its purpose or bind the next generation. 3. Write or update a will that preserves family assets while allocating a portion to kingdom work. 4. Choose business practices and investments that do not rely on predatory interest or exploitation. 5. Establish a benevolence fund—personally or with a small group—to relieve burdens and create opportunities for others. Scriptures that deepen the picture • Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” • Proverbs 13:22 – “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” • Isaiah 61:1-2 – The Messiah proclaims “freedom for the captives” and “the year of the LORD’s favor.” • Luke 4:18-19 – Jesus applies Isaiah’s Jubilee language to His own ministry. • 2 Corinthians 9:6-11 – The cheerful giver’s harvest benefits both giver and recipient. Living the Jubilee rhythm By viewing every dollar, debt, and asset through the lens of divine ownership and periodic release, believers cultivate freedom—freedom to serve, to give, and to reflect Christ’s redeeming work that turns every year into a taste of Jubilee. |
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