Which New Testament teachings align with Leviticus 25:17's call for fairness? Setting the Scene “Do not take advantage of one another, but fear your God; for I am the LORD your God.” (Leviticus 25:17) God ties fairness directly to the fear of Him. Because He is just and truthful, His people must mirror that character in every relationship. Key New Testament Parallels • Matthew 7:12 — “In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you, for this is the essence of the Law and the Prophets.” • Matthew 22:39 — “Love your neighbor as yourself.” • Luke 3:13–14 — John the Baptist: “Collect no more than you are authorized… Do not take money from anyone by force or false accusation; be content with your wages.” • Romans 12:17 — “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody.” • Romans 13:10 — “Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the Law.” • 1 Thessalonians 4:6 — “That no one should take advantage of or defraud his brother… the Lord will avenge all such sins.” • James 2:1, 9 — “Do not show favoritism… If you show favoritism, you sin.” • James 5:4 — “Look, the wages you failed to pay the workmen… are crying out against you.” • Colossians 4:1 — “Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” • Ephesians 6:9 — “Masters, treat your slaves the same way, without threatening them, because you know… there is no favoritism with Him.” • 2 Corinthians 8:21 — “We are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men.” Shared Principles Highlighted • Integrity in transactions: we refuse every form of exploitation (Luke 3:13–14; 1 Thessalonians 4:6). • Impartial love: favoritism is a violation of neighbor-love (James 2:1–9). • Just compensation: withholding wages is condemned (James 5:4) while generosity is commended (2 Corinthians 8:21). • Mutual accountability: both employees and employers answer to the same heavenly Master (Colossians 4:1; Ephesians 6:9). • Proactive goodness: we actively seek the welfare of others, not merely avoid harm (Romans 12:17; Matthew 7:12). Living the Principle Today • Examine every business deal, purchase, and agreement: Would the Lord call it “right and fair”? • Keep relationships free of manipulation, favoritism, or hidden advantage. • Pay what you owe—on time, in full, with gratitude. • If you manage people, treat each one as Christ treats you: with dignity, clarity, and generosity. • Let the fear of God, not fear of loss, drive every decision. |
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