How does Deuteronomy 24:14 connect to Jesus' teachings on loving others? The Verse in Focus Deuteronomy 24:14: “Do not oppress a hired servant who is poor and needy, whether he is one of your brothers or one of the foreigners in your land within your gates.” The Heart Behind the Command - Protects the most vulnerable—“poor and needy.” - Extends compassion across ethnic lines—“brother or foreigner.” - Links righteousness with fair economic practice (see Deuteronomy 24:15). Jesus Echoes the Same Heart - Matthew 22:39–40 — “Love your neighbor as yourself.” - Matthew 7:12 — “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” - Luke 10:36–37 — Good Samaritan: love crosses cultural boundaries. - Matthew 25:40 — Service to “the least of these” is service to Christ. - James 5:4; 1 Timothy 5:18 — withheld wages cry out to God. From Mosaic Law to Kingdom Living - Matthew 5:17 — Jesus fulfills, not abolishes, the Law. - The command’s essence—protective, generous love—remains central. - Kingdom love moves from “do no harm” to active, sacrificial care. Practical Takeaways • Pay workers promptly and fairly (Deuteronomy 24:15; James 5:4). • Treat every employee, day laborer, or contractor with dignity—“brother or foreigner.” • Use influence to confront and prevent exploitation. • Let the Golden Rule guide every business decision (Matthew 7:12). • Show cross-cultural compassion, mirroring the Good Samaritan. • Remember: caring for the vulnerable is caring for Christ Himself (Matthew 25:40). |