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
This phrase indicates a distinction between Israelites and foreigners in the context of debt and economic relationships. The Hebrew word for "foreigner" is "nokri," which refers to someone who is not part of the Israelite community. Historically, this reflects the socio-economic structure of ancient Israel, where community bonds were strong, and economic practices were designed to maintain social stability and cohesion within the community. The allowance to collect debts from foreigners suggests a pragmatic approach to international trade and relations, recognizing the different obligations and expectations that existed outside the covenant community.

but you must forgive
The Hebrew root for "forgive" here is "shamat," which means to release or let drop. This concept is central to the Sabbatical Year, a time of release and renewal. It reflects God's desire for His people to live in freedom and grace, mirroring His own forgiveness towards them. The act of forgiving debts is not merely a financial transaction but a spiritual discipline that fosters trust, compassion, and unity among the Israelites. It serves as a reminder of God's provision and the importance of mercy in human relationships.

whatever your brother owes you
The term "brother" in this context is "ach" in Hebrew, which extends beyond biological relationships to include fellow members of the Israelite community. This familial language underscores the covenantal bond among the Israelites, emphasizing that they are to treat each other with the same care and concern as family members. The obligation to forgive debts within this community is a reflection of the covenantal relationship they share with God, who has redeemed them and called them to live as His people. This practice of debt forgiveness is a tangible expression of the love and solidarity that should characterize the people of God, setting them apart from other nations and demonstrating the transformative power of God's law.

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.