Which New Testament teachings align with the principles in Exodus 22:24? Exodus 22:24 at a glance “If you lend money to My people ... you are not to charge him interest.” (BSB, v. 24, abridged) Core principles on display • Compassion for the needy • Refusal to profit from another’s hardship • Recognition that God defends the oppressed Echoes in Jesus’ teaching • Luke 6:34-35 – “If you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? … lend, expecting nothing in return.” • Matthew 5:42 – “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” What we see: – Jesus intensifies the call to generous, interest-free help. – The motive shifts from duty alone to reflecting the Father’s mercy (Luke 6:36). How the early church lived it • Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35 – believers shared possessions so “there was no needy person among them.” • The absence of interest-bearing loans is implicit; needs were met through voluntary giving. Apostolic instructions that mirror Exodus 22:24 • Romans 13:8 – “Owe no one anything, except to love one another.” • 1 Timothy 6:18 – “Instruct the rich … to be generous, ready to share.” • James 2:15-17 – faith without meeting practical needs is declared dead. • 1 John 3:17-18 – withholding help from a brother in need contradicts God’s love. Key parallels: – Avoid financial entanglements that exploit. – Channel resources toward relief, not profit. – Love is proven by tangible aid. Pulling it together Exodus 22:24 forbids turning a neighbor’s crisis into personal gain. The New Testament carries that banner forward: Jesus commands no-strings-attached lending, the early church models sacrificial sharing, and the apostles warn against any form of exploitative debt. Across both covenants, God’s people are called to open-handed generosity that protects the vulnerable and puts divine love on display. |
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