How does Leviticus 25:36 guide us in treating others financially and ethically? Key verse “Do not take any interest or profit from him, but fear your God, so that your countryman may live among you.” (Leviticus 25:36) Historical context • Leviticus 25 governs the Sabbath Year and Jubilee, when debts were forgiven and land returned. • God’s design protected Israelites who fell into poverty, preventing generational bondage. • Lending without interest was an act of covenant faithfulness, mirroring God’s redemptive generosity. Financial principles embedded in the verse • No exploitation—“Do not take any interest or profit” blocks predatory gain from another’s hardship. • God-fearing motivation—“but fear your God” roots financial ethics in reverence, not economics. • Preservation of life—“so that your countryman may live among you” ties fair finance to human dignity and community stability. Ethical implications for today • Refuse to profit from another believer’s desperation. • Center every financial decision on worshipful obedience, not mere legality. • Recognize that righteous economics sustains families, churches, and neighborhoods. Connecting passages • Exodus 22:25—“If you lend money to My people…you are not to charge him interest.” • Deuteronomy 23:19–20—interest permitted from foreigners but barred within the covenant family. • Psalm 15:5—righteous man “does not lend his money at interest.” • Nehemiah 5:7–13—community repentance when leaders exacted interest. • Ezekiel 18:8-9—refusal to charge interest marks the righteous. • Luke 6:34-35—Jesus urges lending without expectation of return, echoing Jubilee mercy. • James 2:15-17—meeting material needs is integral to living faith. Practical applications • Offer loans or aid to struggling believers without interest; consider gifts when possible. • Structure business practices to avoid hidden fees or burdens that exploit the vulnerable. • Budget generosity—set aside funds specifically for helping fellow Christians in financial distress. • Advocate policies, church benevolence funds, and personal habits that mirror Jubilee compassion. • Remember every transaction is spiritual: fear God first, profits second, people always. |
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