What does "restore in full" teach about God's justice and mercy? The Context Leviticus 6:5 describes the requirement for a thief to “restore it in full, add a fifth of its value, and give it to its owner…”. The instruction sits within laws on theft and deceit, immediately followed by details of the guilt offering. Justice on Display: Full Restitution • Wrongdoing has measurable cost. God commands tangible repayment, not mere apology. • “Restore it in full” underscores that nothing short of complete repayment satisfies divine justice. • The added fifth (20 %) shows justice goes beyond break-even; loss, pain, and inconvenience are acknowledged. • Exodus 22:1 echoes this: “If a man steals… he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep”. Justice is proportional, transparent, and protective of victims. • God’s character is reflected: He is fair, orderly, and uncompromising about righting wrongs. Mercy in the Same Breath: A Path to Forgiveness • The offender presents a guilt offering the same day restitution is made (Leviticus 6:6-7). Sin is covered, relationship with God and neighbor restored. • Mercy does not erase justice; it works through it. God provides the sacrifice so the sinner can be reconciled rather than destroyed. • Psalm 85:10 pictures this harmony: “Mercy and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed.” • The process is accessible. Even the guilty can find a clear, divinely approved route back to fellowship. Gospel Echoes • The pattern anticipates Christ. He “canceled the record of debt… nailing it to the cross” (Colossians 2:14). • At Calvary, God remains “just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Romans 3:26). Justice is fully satisfied; mercy is lavishly extended. • Zacchaeus caught the heartbeat of this law: “If I have cheated anyone of anything, I will repay four times the amount” (Luke 19:8). Encountering Jesus birthed voluntary, joyful restitution. Living It Today • Guard integrity: treat another’s property, reputation, and time with scrupulous care. • Where wrong has been done, make prompt, full, and even above-and-beyond restitution. • Celebrate and imitate divine mercy: extend forgiveness when someone repays, just as God forgave you. • Let gratitude for Christ’s perfect “restoration in full” fuel generosity, honesty, and peacemaking in every relationship. |
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