Should we avoid owing anything to anyone? Foundational Scriptural References Romans 13:8 states, “Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love, for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.” This verse is often cited in discussions about whether believers should maintain any financial or moral debts. Another pertinent passage is Proverbs 22:7: “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” Together, these verses underscore the biblical caution about financial liabilities and the importance of love as the central relational “debt.” Old Testament Insights on Debt 1. Prohibitions Against Usury: In passages such as Exodus 22:25, Israel was commanded not to charge interest to fellow Israelites in need. Although this principle specifically applied to the covenant community, it highlights an overarching divine concern for compassion in financial matters. 2. Year of Jubilee and Debt Release: Every fiftieth year in ancient Israel, those who had sold land or indentured themselves due to debt were released (Leviticus 25:10–13). Similarly, in Deuteronomy 15:1–2, the instruction to release debts every seven years demonstrates that debt was never meant to become a lifelong bondage. These safeguards highlight God’s design for economic compassion and remind us that indefinite, crushing debt goes against the scriptural pattern of mercy. 3. The Widow’s Oil (2 Kings 4:1–7): In this account, a widow feared losing her sons to creditors. The prophet Elisha, through a miraculous provision of oil that could be sold to pay off her debt, relieved her burden. This narrative affirms that while Scripture acknowledges debt realities, divine intervention and wisdom can help believers handle obligations without falling into inescapable servitude. New Testament Perspective 1. Jesus’ Teaching on Forgiveness and Debts: In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus teaches: “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). While this speaks primarily of moral and spiritual debts, it reflects a broader principle that living in fellowship with God compels believers to seek reconciliation and resolution—spiritually and tangibly. 2. Apostolic Advice on Financial Responsibility: Paul’s exhortation in Romans 13:7 is “Pay everyone what you owe...,” which immediately precedes Romans 13:8. This includes taxes, revenue, respect, and honor. The overarching rule is that believers should be trustworthy and diligent in meeting obligations, ensuring that financial debts do not become tools for oppression or hinder the believer’s testimony. 3. Balancing Stewardship and Generosity: Scriptures such as 2 Corinthians 9:7 encourage cheerful giving. Managing finances wisely—while also being charitable—points to a balanced view: responsible stewardship should coincide with a caring attitude toward those in need. The avoidance of excessive or destructive debt is thus one aspect of a life marked by generosity and trust in God. Distinguishing Financial Debt from Moral Obligation 1. What We “Owe” Spiritually: Romans 13:8 emphasizes a unique “debt” of love. This indicates that believers are continually obliged to love one another. Contrasted with financial debts, which can and should be repaid, the “debt” of love is perpetual. 2. Practical Implications: A mortgage or short-term loan, if managed responsibly and ethically, is not automatically condemned in Scripture. Yet insurmountable or frivolous debt may violate principles of biblical wisdom. Believers are instructed to remain free from any dominion (financial or otherwise) that compromises their freedom in Christ or their ability to serve others. Historical and Practical Considerations 1. Context of Early Christian Communities: In the first-century Roman world, debts often entangled people to the point of servitude. Romans 13:8 was a practical admonition to avoid burdensome debt that might place believers under undue control of a pagan authority system. Archaeological findings in places like Pompeii illustrate how debt and patronage systems could exploit the poor––a reality New Testament authors admonished Christians to avoid. 2. Relevance for Modern Believers: While economic structures differ today, the underlying principle remains: excessive debt can disrupt devotion to God, limit freedom to help others, and create anxiety. Behavioral studies also note that burdensome debt can lead to stress and strained relationships, aligning with biblical cautions in Proverbs 22:7. 3. Scientific and Archaeological Support for Scriptural Wisdom: Although the topic of debt itself is more behavioral and ethical, the preserved manuscripts—from the Dead Sea Scrolls to later codices—show that the biblical commands about financial responsibility have remained intact throughout centuries. Outside documents such as Babylonian loan contracts also affirm that debt and its potential for exploitation is an ancient issue, highlighting the Bible’s consistent stance on moral and fiscal prudence. Practical Guidance and Applications 1. Striving for Financial Freedom: Believers are encouraged to live within their means, budget responsibly, and repay any obligations promptly. The guiding principle is faithfulness (Luke 16:10–11) and the avoidance of entanglements that compromise spiritual or moral obligations. 2. When Debt May Be Necessary: Some situations (e.g., purchasing a home or funding a necessary education) can involve loans. Scripture does not universally forbid debt, but believers should carefully count the cost (Luke 14:28) and ensure that repayment terms are manageable and honorable. 3. Generosity and Love: Even if one is debt-free financially, Romans 13:8 reminds us of a continuing “debt” of love toward our fellow humans. This framework calls believers to look beyond themselves, engaging in acts of mercy and generosity. Giving to those in need exemplifies a spirit that transcends mere avoidance of negative debt and channels resources into reflecting Christ’s character. Conclusion of the Matter Scripture cautions strongly against carrying unpaid financial burdens that could hinder one’s liberty to serve and glorify God. While the Bible stops short of a blanket prohibition on all forms of debt, its guiding principles endorse responsible stewardship, prompt repayment, and the pursuit of a life unshackled by oppressive financial obligations. The ultimate “debt” that should remain is love—an ever-present call to honor God and serve others in Christlike compassion. As Romans 13:8 succinctly puts it: “Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love.” This teaching encapsulates the biblical vision: maintain financial integrity, minimize unnecessary burdens, and let the love of God serve as the perpetual obligation that shapes every believer’s life. |
    |