Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context:Being in debt refers to the state of owing money or obligations to another party. In biblical times, debt was a common aspect of economic life, often resulting from agricultural failures, taxes, or personal mismanagement. The Bible addresses the issue of debt from both practical and moral perspectives, providing guidance on how to manage and view financial obligations. Old Testament Insights: The Old Testament contains numerous references to debt, often highlighting the moral and social implications of borrowing and lending. In Deuteronomy 15:1-2 , the concept of the "Year of Release" is introduced, where every seventh year creditors were commanded to release their fellow Israelites from debts: "At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel the loan he has made to his fellow Israelite. He shall not require payment from his fellow Israelite or brother, because the LORD’s time for canceling debts has been proclaimed." This provision underscores the importance of mercy and compassion in financial dealings, reflecting God's desire for economic justice and social equity. Additionally, Proverbs 22:7 warns of the power dynamics inherent in debt: "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This verse highlights the potential loss of freedom and autonomy that can accompany indebtedness. New Testament Teachings: The New Testament continues to address the issue of debt, emphasizing the ethical dimensions of financial obligations. In Romans 13:8 , the Apostle Paul advises, "Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love, for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law." This instruction suggests that while financial debts should be avoided, the moral obligation to love others is paramount and perpetual. Jesus' teachings also touch on the theme of debt, particularly in the context of forgiveness. In the Lord's Prayer, found in Matthew 6:12 , Jesus instructs His followers to pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." Here, the concept of debt is used metaphorically to describe sin and the need for divine and interpersonal forgiveness. Practical Considerations: The Bible offers practical advice for managing debt, encouraging wisdom and prudence in financial matters. Proverbs 6:1-5 advises against rash financial commitments: "My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge with a stranger, if you have been trapped by the words of your lips, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself, for you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go, humble yourself, and press your plea with your neighbor. Allow no sleep to your eyes or slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler." This passage underscores the importance of avoiding unnecessary financial entanglements and taking swift action to resolve them when they occur. The Bible encourages believers to live within their means, practice generosity, and trust in God's provision. Moral and Spiritual Dimensions: From a moral and spiritual perspective, being in debt is not merely a financial issue but also a matter of character and trust in God. The Bible encourages believers to be diligent stewards of their resources, to avoid the pitfalls of greed and materialism, and to prioritize their spiritual obligations over material concerns. The teachings on debt serve as a reminder of the importance of integrity, responsibility, and reliance on God's guidance in all aspects of life. Topical Bible Verses Romans 13:8Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loves another has fulfilled the law. Topicalbible.org Colossians 2:14 Romans 13:7 Matthew 18:26-32 Romans 4:4 Greek 3784. opheilo -- to owe ... 3784 (a primitive verb, dictionary) -- to owe, be , ie obliged to rectify a debt ("ought"). 3784 ("owe") refers to being (or ) to meet an , ie to pay off a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3784.htm - 8k 3781. opheiletes -- a debtor 629. apolutrosis -- a release effected by payment of ransom Library Whether Every Sin Incurs a Debt of Eternal Punishment? Whether the Debt of Punishment Remains after Sin? Whether the Debt of Punishment is an Effect of Sin? Whether the Debt of Punishment that Arises through Ingratitude in ... The Great Debt She Owed to Our Lord for his Mercy to Her. She ... There is this Further, that in that Very Debt which Married ... Whether Husband and Wife May be Reconciled after Being Divorced? Two Essential Things The Debt of Iren??us to Justin Martyr He, Being Sick in Body, and Having Sent Some of his Servants to ... 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