Deuteronomy 15:3

You may collect something from a foreigner, but you must forgive whatever your brother owes you.

Study Bible

You may collect something from a foreigner
In the context of ancient Israel, a "foreigner" refers to someone who is not part of the Israelite community or covenant people. This distinction is significant because the Israelites were bound by specific laws and covenants that did not apply to foreigners. The permission to collect debts from foreigners reflects the different social and legal obligations that existed between Israelites and non-Israelites. This practice underscores the importance of community and covenant within Israel, as well as the recognition of different economic relationships with those outside the covenant. In a broader biblical context, this distinction can be seen in the way Israel was called to be a separate and holy nation (Leviticus 20:26), yet also to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6).

but you must forgive whatever your brother owes you
The term "brother" here refers to fellow Israelites, emphasizing the familial and covenantal relationship among the people of God. The command to forgive debts every seven years, known as the Year of Release or Shemitah, is rooted in the principle of mercy and social justice. This practice ensured that poverty and debt did not become permanent conditions within the community, reflecting God's concern for the poor and marginalized (Deuteronomy 15:1-2). It also foreshadows the ultimate forgiveness and release found in Jesus Christ, who cancels the debt of sin for believers (Colossians 2:13-14). This principle of forgiveness and release is echoed in the New Testament teachings on forgiveness and the Jubilee (Luke 4:18-19), highlighting the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving instructions on how to live in community and obedience to God's laws.

3. Foreigners
Non-Israelites living among or interacting with the Israelites, subject to different rules regarding debt.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are about to enter, where these laws will be applied.

5. Sabbatical Year
The seventh year in which debts are to be forgiven among the Israelites, emphasizing mercy and community support.

Teaching Points

Principle of Mercy
The command to forgive debts among brothers highlights God's desire for mercy and compassion within the community of believers.

Community Support
By forgiving debts, the Israelites were to ensure that no one among them was perpetually burdened, fostering a supportive and caring community.

Distinction in Relationships
The distinction between how debts are handled with foreigners versus fellow Israelites underscores the special bond and responsibility within the family of faith.

Reflection of God's Forgiveness
Just as God forgives our spiritual debts, we are called to forgive others, reflecting His grace and mercy in our relationships.

Practical Stewardship
This law encourages wise financial stewardship and generosity, reminding believers to manage resources in a way that honors God and supports others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of forgiving debts among brothers in Deuteronomy 15:3 reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

2. In what ways can the concept of the Sabbatical year and debt forgiveness be applied in modern Christian communities?

3. How does the distinction between handling debts with foreigners and fellow Israelites inform our understanding of relationships within the church today?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the forgiveness of debts in Deuteronomy 15:3 and Jesus' teachings on forgiveness in the New Testament?

5. How can believers today practice financial stewardship and generosity in a way that aligns with the principles found in Deuteronomy 15:3?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 23:10-11
Discusses the Sabbatical year, where the land is to rest, paralleling the forgiveness of debts.

Leviticus 25:1-7
Provides further details on the Sabbatical year, emphasizing rest and provision.

Matthew 18:21-35
Jesus' parable of the unforgiving servant, illustrating the importance of forgiving debts as God forgives us.

Galatians 6:10
Encourages doing good to all, especially to those in the family of believers, reflecting the principle of forgiving debts among brothers.

Romans 13:8
Advises believers to owe nothing except love, aligning with the spirit of debt forgiveness.