◄ Leviticus 25:42 ►
Because the Israelites are My servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt, they are not to be sold as slaves.
Study Bible
Because the Israelites are My servants
This phrase establishes a foundational identity for the Israelites as belonging to God. The Hebrew word for "servants" here is "עֲבָדַי" (avaday), which implies a relationship of service and devotion. In the ancient Near Eastern context, being a servant of a deity was a position of honor and responsibility. This phrase underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God is the sovereign Lord, and the Israelites are His chosen people, set apart for His purposes. This identity as God's servants is central to their national and spiritual identity, reminding them of their unique calling and the divine authority they are under.

whom I brought out of the land of Egypt
This phrase recalls the historical and miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, an event that is central to their identity and faith. The Hebrew verb "הוֹצֵאתִי" (hotzeiti) means "I brought out," emphasizing God's active role in their liberation. This act of deliverance is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, serving as a constant reminder of God's power, faithfulness, and love. It is a call to remember their past bondage and the freedom they now enjoy, which was granted by God's grace and intervention. This historical context reinforces their obligation to live according to God's laws and to treat others with justice and compassion.

they are not to be sold as slaves
This commandment reflects God's desire for His people to live in freedom and dignity. The Hebrew word for "sold" is "יִמָּכְרוּ" (yimmakru), which implies a transaction or exchange. By prohibiting the sale of Israelites as slaves, God is ensuring that His people do not return to a state of bondage similar to what they experienced in Egypt. This directive is part of the larger Jubilee laws, which promote social justice, economic equality, and the restoration of community relationships. It highlights the value God places on human life and freedom, and it calls the Israelites to reflect God's character in their treatment of one another. This principle is a powerful reminder of the inherent worth and dignity of every individual as created in the image of God.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, whom He delivered from slavery in Egypt. This verse addresses their identity and status as God's servants.

2. Egypt
The land from which God delivered the Israelites, symbolizing bondage and oppression. It serves as a historical and spiritual backdrop for understanding God's deliverance.

3. God
The sovereign Lord who claims ownership over the Israelites, emphasizing His role as their Redeemer and Master.

4. Slavery
A social and economic condition that God prohibits for His people, highlighting their unique relationship with Him.

5. The Year of Jubilee
A context within Leviticus 25, where liberty is proclaimed, and debts are forgiven, reflecting God's desire for freedom and restoration.
Teaching Points
Identity in God
Recognize that, like the Israelites, believers are God's servants, redeemed and set apart for His purposes.

Freedom from Bondage
Understand that God desires freedom for His people, both physically and spiritually, and this freedom should be reflected in how we live and treat others.

God's Ownership
Acknowledge that as God's redeemed, we belong to Him, and our lives should reflect His lordship and values.

Social Justice and Compassion
Embrace the call to treat others with dignity and respect, advocating for freedom and justice in our communities.

Spiritual Jubilee
Live in the spirit of the Jubilee, practicing forgiveness, restoration, and generosity as a reflection of God's grace.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding our identity as God's servants, like the Israelites, impact our daily lives and decisions?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of freedom from bondage in our spiritual walk and relationships with others?

3. How does recognizing God's ownership over our lives influence our priorities and actions?

4. What are practical ways we can advocate for social justice and compassion in our communities, reflecting the values of Leviticus 25:42?

5. How can the concept of a spiritual Jubilee inspire us to practice forgiveness and restoration in our personal and communal lives?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 20:2
This verse reiterates God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt, establishing His authority and their identity as His people.

1 Corinthians 7:22-23
Paul speaks of believers as being bought with a price, drawing a parallel to the Israelites' redemption and emphasizing freedom in Christ.

Galatians 5:1
This verse speaks to the freedom believers have in Christ, encouraging them not to return to a yoke of slavery, much like the Israelites were not to be sold as slaves.
Sermons
God's SlavesAlexander MaclarenLeviticus 25:42
Servants of GodS.R. Aldridge Leviticus 25:42
A Sabbath of Rest unto the LandW. H. Jellie.Leviticus 25:2-55
Deliverance from SinHoward James.Leviticus 25:2-55
Freedom Through ChristT. De Witt Talmage.Leviticus 25:2-55
Jubilee GladnessJ. Cairns.Leviticus 25:2-55
Land Laws Among Other NationsM. M. Kalisch, Ph. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Land TenureT. T. Munger.Leviticus 25:2-55
Laws of Trade-WagesHom. ReviewLeviticus 25:2-55
Lessons from the Sabbatical YearF. W. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
Liberty Through ChristRichard Newton, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Man Need not Despair of -ProvidenceBp. Babington.Leviticus 25:2-55
Practical Reliance Upon GodIndian Witness.Leviticus 25:2-55
Released from DebtChristian AgeLeviticus 25:2-55
Results of Jubilee YearT. Guthrie, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Sojourners with GodHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The Hebrew System of Land TenureR. Reid.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Joyful SoundC. S. Robinson, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The Jubilee a Type of the GospelWm. Sleigh.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Jubilee Year: its Fourfold SignificanceW. H. Jellie.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Oppressor Rebuked and the Oppression RemovedC. F. S. Money, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Purpose of the Sabbatical YearM. M. Kalisch, Ph. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Resemblance Between the Year of Jubilee and the GospelT. B. Baker.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sabbath of the FieldsH. Macmillan, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sabbatic Year and JubileeJ. A. Seiss, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sinner's Chains are Self ForgedPreacher's Lantern.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeA. G. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeA. H. Currier.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeWalter Roberts, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeD. C. Hughes, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeT. Binney.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year SabbathDr. Ide.Leviticus 25:2-55
What Shall We Eat the Seventh Year?A. G. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeR.M. Edgar Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of JubileeW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of Jubilee: Ii. the World's RedemptionW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of Jubilee: Iii. the Blessed KingdomW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Justice and MercyJ.A. Macdonald Leviticus 25:35-55
The Law of Personal ServitudeR.A. Redford Leviticus 25:35-55
SlaveryLeviticus 25:39-55
People
Israelites, Levites, Moses
Places
Canaan, Egypt, Mount Sinai
Topics
Bondmen, Bond-men, Egypt, Forth, Property, Sale, Sell, Servant, Servants, Slave, Slaves, Sold
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Leviticus 25:42

     5274   credit
     7160   servants of the Lord

Leviticus 25:23-43

     5504   rights

Leviticus 25:35-42

     5909   motives, importance

Leviticus 25:35-43

     5274   credit

Leviticus 25:39-43

     6659   freedom, acts in OT
     7482   Year of Jubilee

Leviticus 25:39-55

     5378   law, OT
     7447   slavery, in OT
     8343   servanthood, in society

Leviticus 25:42-43

     5825   cruelty, God's attitude

Library
Sojourners with God
'The land shall not be sold for ever: for the land is Mine; for ye are strangers and sojourners with Me.' --LEV. xxv. 23. The singular institution of the Jubilee year had more than one purpose. As a social and economical arrangement it tended to prevent the extremes of wealth and poverty. Every fiftieth year the land was to revert to its original owners, the lineal descendants of those who had 'come in with the conqueror,' Joshua. Debts were to be remitted, slaves emancipated, and so the mountains …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

God's Slaves
'For they are My servants, which I brought forth out of the land of Egypt; they shall not be sold as bondmen.' --LEV. xxv. 42. This is the basis of the Mosaic legislation as to slavery. It did not suppress but regulated that accursed system. Certainly Hebrew slavery was a very different thing from that of other nations. In the first place, no Jew was to be a slave. To that broad principle there were exceptions, such as the case of the man who voluntarily gave himself up to his creditor. But even …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Kinsman Redeemer
'After that he is sold he may be redeemed again; one of his brethren may redeem him.'--LEV. xxv. 48. There are several of the institutions and precepts of the Mosaic legislation which, though not prophetic, nor typical, have yet remarkable correspondences with lofty Christian truth. They may be used as symbols, if only we remember that we are diverting them from their original purpose. How singularly these words lend themselves to the statement of the very central truths of Christianity--a slavery …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Boniface viii Ad 1294-1303.
PART I In Celestine's place was chosen Benedict Gaetani, who, although even older than the worn-out and doting late pope, was still full of strength, both in body and in mind. Benedict (who took the name of Boniface VIII) is said to have been very learned, especially in matters at law; but his pride and ambition led him into attempts which ended in his own ruin, and did serious harm to the papacy. In the year 1300 Boniface set on foot what was called the Jubilee. You will remember the Jubilee which …
J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation

The Kinsman-Redeemer
'Their Redeemer is strong; the Lord of Hosts is His name: He shall thoroughly plead their cause.'--JER. l. 34. Among the remarkable provisions of the Mosaic law there were some very peculiar ones affecting the next-of-kin. The nearest living blood relation to a man had certain obligations and offices to discharge, under certain contingencies, in respect of which he received a special name; which is sometimes translated in the Old Testament 'Redeemer,' and sometimes 'Avenger' of blood. What the etymological …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Day of Atonement
Now, I shall invite your attention to the ceremonies of this solemn day, taking the different parts in detail. First, we shall consider the person who made the atonement; secondly, the sacrifice whereby the atonement was typically made; thirdly, the effects of the atonement; and fourthly, our behaviour on the recollection of the atonement, as well set forth by the conduct prescribed to the Israelites on that day. I. First, THE PERSON WHO WAS TO MAKE THE ATONEMENT. And at the outset, we remark that …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

Appeal to the Christian Women of the South
BY A.E. GRIMKE. "Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not within thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place: but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this. And Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer:--and so will I go in unto the king, …
Angelina Emily Grimke—An Appeal to the Christian Women of the South

Sin and Forgiveness Between Brethren.
(Autumn, a.d. 29.) ^A Matt. XVIII. 15-35. ^a 15 And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. [Having warned against giving offense, Jesus now shows how to act when offense is received. The fault is to be pointed out to the offender, but for the purpose of gaining him--not from a desire to humiliate him. The offended is to seek the offender, and the offender is likewise to seek the offended (Matt. xv. 23, 24), …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Commerce
The remarkable change which we have noticed in the views of Jewish authorities, from contempt to almost affectation of manual labour, could certainly not have been arbitrary. But as we fail to discover here any religious motive, we can only account for it on the score of altered political and social circumstances. So long as the people were, at least nominally, independent, and in possession of their own land, constant engagement in a trade would probably mark an inferior social stage, and imply …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life

"And the Redeemer Shall Come unto Zion, and unto them that Turn,"
Isaiah lix. 20.--"And the Redeemer shall come unto Zion, and unto them that turn," &c. Doctrines, as things, have their seasons and times. Every thing is beautiful in its season. So there is no word of truth, but it hath a season and time in which it is beautiful. And indeed that is a great part of wisdom, to bring forth everything in its season, to discern when and where, and to whom it is pertinent and edifying, to speak such and such truths. But there is one doctrine that is never out of season, …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Eighth Commandment
Thou shalt not steal.' Exod 20: 15. AS the holiness of God sets him against uncleanness, in the command Thou shalt not commit adultery;' so the justice of God sets him against rapine and robbery, in the command, Thou shalt not steal.' The thing forbidden in this commandment, is meddling with another man's property. The civil lawyers define furtum, stealth or theft to be the laying hands unjustly on that which is another's;' the invading another's right. I. The causes of theft. [1] The internal causes …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Baptism
Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them,' &c. Matt 28: 19. I. The way whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemptions, is, in the use of the sacraments. What are the sacraments in general? They are visible signs of invisible grace. Is not the word of God sufficient to salvation? What need then is there of sacraments? We must not be wise above what is written. It is God's will that his church …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Leviticus
The emphasis which modern criticism has very properly laid on the prophetic books and the prophetic element generally in the Old Testament, has had the effect of somewhat diverting popular attention from the priestly contributions to the literature and religion of Israel. From this neglect Leviticus has suffered most. Yet for many reasons it is worthy of close attention; it is the deliberate expression of the priestly mind of Israel at its best, and it thus forms a welcome foil to the unattractive …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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