Compassionate lending, as outlined in the Bible, is an expression of love and mercy towards those in need. It is a practice deeply rooted in the principles of justice, kindness, and community support, reflecting God's character and His commands to His people.

Old Testament Foundations

The concept of compassionate lending is prominently featured in the Mosaic Law. In Deuteronomy 15:7-8 , the Israelites are instructed: "If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs." This passage emphasizes the importance of generosity and the moral obligation to assist those in financial distress.

The Law also includes specific regulations to protect the dignity and rights of the borrower. Exodus 22:25 states, "If you lend money to one of My people among you who is poor, you must not be like a moneylender to him; you must not charge him interest." This prohibition against usury underscores the principle that lending should not be a means of exploitation but rather an act of compassion.

Sabbath and Jubilee Years

The Sabbath and Jubilee years further illustrate the biblical approach to lending and debt. Every seventh year, known as the Sabbath year, debts were to be forgiven (Deuteronomy 15:1-2): "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."

The Jubilee year, occurring every fiftieth year, was a time of economic reset, where land was returned to its original owners and debts were forgiven (Leviticus 25:10). These practices were designed to prevent the accumulation of debt and ensure that poverty did not become a permanent condition.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus reinforces the spirit of compassionate lending. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you" (Matthew 5:42). This instruction highlights the importance of generosity and the willingness to help others without expecting anything in return.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further exemplifies the principle of selfless giving. Although not a direct teaching on lending, the Samaritan's actions demonstrate the broader biblical ethic of compassion and care for those in need, regardless of social or ethnic boundaries.

Apostolic Guidance

The early church also practiced compassionate lending and communal support. Acts 4:34-35 describes how "there were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, and lay them at the apostles’ feet for distribution to anyone as he had need." This communal approach ensured that the needs of all members were met, reflecting the unity and love within the body of Christ.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, encourages believers to be generous and willing to share. In 2 Corinthians 9:7 , he writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." This teaching aligns with the biblical principle that giving, including lending, should be done willingly and joyfully.

Conclusion

Compassionate lending, as depicted in the Bible, is a profound expression of love and mercy, rooted in the character of God and His commands to His people. It calls for generosity, protection of the vulnerable, and a commitment to justice and community well-being. Through both the Old and New Testaments, believers are encouraged to practice lending that reflects God's compassion and care for all.