How can we apply the principle of restitution in our daily relationships? Setting the Scriptural Principle “then the one who has sinned and has realized his guilt must return what he took by robbery or what he obtained by extortion, or the deposit entrusted to him, or the lost property he found.” (Leviticus 6:4) Restitution in the Broader Biblical Story • Exodus 22:1 – “If a man steals an ox or a sheep… he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep.” • Numbers 5:6-7 – Confession is followed by paying full restitution “plus a fifth.” • Luke 19:8-9 – Zacchaeus offers fourfold repayment; Jesus calls it the fruit of salvation. • Matthew 5:23-24 – Reconciliation with a brother precedes worship. • Ephesians 4:28 – “Let the thief steal no longer, but rather labor… so that he may have something to share with the one in need.” Why Restitution Matters Today • It demonstrates genuine repentance—turning from sin and making wrongs right. • It rebuilds trust where damage has been done. • It protects community integrity; wrongs are not ignored or minimized. • It mirrors God’s character—He is just and restores what sin has broken. • It becomes a witness to unbelievers of transformed living. Practical Steps to Live It Out 1. Identify the Loss ‑ Property, money, time, reputation, emotional hurt—be specific. 2. Admit the Wrong ‑ Confess plainly without self-justification (1 John 1:9). 3. Calculate the Restitution ‑ Replace what was taken or damaged; add appropriate compensation (the “plus a fifth” principle can guide fairness). 4. Initiate Personal Contact ‑ Go directly if safe; use a mediator if necessary (Proverbs 15:1). 5. Follow Through Promptly ‑ Delayed obedience erodes credibility (James 4:17). 6. Maintain Humility ‑ Allow the offended party to respond; accept their terms when reasonable. 7. Live Differently ‑ Replace old patterns with generosity and service (Luke 3:10-14). Daily Relationship Checklist • Have I borrowed anything I haven’t returned? • Have I damaged someone’s reputation and failed to correct it? • Have I wasted an employer’s time or resources? • Have I withheld wages, tips, or honest payment? • Have I breached confidence or trust that needs mending? When something surfaces, act quickly rather than waiting for guilt to fade. When Restitution Seems Impossible • If you cannot locate the person, give equivalent value to their closest relative or, if none, to ministry for the needy (Numbers 5:8). • If the amount is beyond reach, begin proportional payments and communicate clearly (Romans 13:8). • Spiritual harms may require ongoing encouragement, accountability, or help from church leadership (Galatians 6:1-2). The Gospel Motive God reconciled us to Himself “not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Corinthians 5:19). Because Christ paid the debt we could never repay, we joyfully restore what we can. Restitution becomes both gratitude for His grace and a living picture of it to others. |
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