Connect Exodus 21:8 with New Testament teachings on love and justice. An Ancient Safeguard for the Vulnerable Exodus 21:8: “If she does not please her master who has designated her for himself, he must allow her to be redeemed. He has no right to sell her to foreigners, since he has broken faith with her.” • The law recognizes the young woman’s full personhood. • Her master is bound by covenant to protect her future. • If he will not marry her, he must give her the freedom of redemption rather than treat her as merchandise. • Justice is practical, immediate, and measurable: no exploitation, no profiteering, no foreign trafficking. Justice Woven into Redemption • The Hebrew word for “redeemed” (gaʾal) points to a kinsman-redeemer who pays a price to restore freedom or inheritance (Leviticus 25:47-49; Ruth 4:4-6). • The principle: vulnerable people deserve both justice (no wrongful sale) and love (opportunity for restoration). Jesus Embodies Perfect Love and Justice • Luke 4:18-19 – quoting Isaiah, Jesus proclaims “freedom to the captives” and “release for the oppressed.” His mission mirrors the liberation principle of Exodus 21:8. • Matthew 12:18-20 – the Servant “will proclaim justice to the nations,” yet “a bruised reed He will not break,” joining tenderness with righteousness. • John 8:34-36 – the Son sets slaves free, not by sale but by adoption into God’s household. Love Fulfills the Law • Romans 13:9-10 – “Love your neighbor as yourself… therefore love is the fulfillment of the Law.” The protective command of Exodus 21:8 is one expression of that enduring love-mandate. • Galatians 5:13-14 – freedom in Christ is never a license to exploit; rather, “serve one another in love.” New-Covenant Standards for Masters and Servants • Ephesians 6:9 – masters are to abandon threats, remembering they share one Master in heaven. • Colossians 4:1 – “Masters, grant your bond-servants justice and fairness.” • Philemon 15-17 – Paul urges Philemon to receive Onesimus “no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother.” These instructions echo Exodus 21:8’s call to protect and honor those under authority. Christ, Our Ultimate Redeemer • 1 Peter 1:18-19 – believers are “redeemed… not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” • Revelation 5:9 – Jesus “purchased” people for God from every tribe and language, reversing the injustice of being sold away. Through the cross, He pays the final redemption price, guaranteeing that no believer will ever be handed over to another power. Living the Principle Today • Uphold the dignity of every person—especially the vulnerable—in our homes, workplaces, and communities. • Reject all forms of exploitation, trafficking, or profiteering. • Practice redemptive love: pay whatever cost is required to restore, protect, and elevate others. • Let every exercise of authority be marked by the Savior’s blend of justice and compassion. |
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