Indebtedness, in the biblical context, refers to the state of owing something, typically money, to another party. This concept is not only financial but also extends to moral and spiritual obligations. The Bible addresses indebtedness in various forms, providing guidance on how to manage debts and the attitudes believers should have towards them.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, indebtedness is often discussed in the context of economic justice and compassion. The Mosaic Law provided specific instructions on how debts should be handled among the Israelites. For instance, every seventh year, known as the Sabbath year, debts were to be forgiven: "At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts" (Deuteronomy 15:1). This law was designed to prevent the accumulation of debt and to promote social equity and compassion among the people.

The concept of the Jubilee year, occurring every fiftieth year, further emphasized the release from debts and the restoration of property (Leviticus 25:10-13). These laws underscored the importance of mercy and the recognition that ultimately, all possessions belong to God.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles address indebtedness with a focus on the moral and spiritual dimensions. Jesus taught His followers to pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12). This prayer highlights the importance of forgiveness and the recognition of one's own need for mercy.

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, advises believers to "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law" (Romans 13:8). This teaching emphasizes that love is the ultimate obligation that surpasses all others, and it should be the guiding principle in all relationships, including those involving financial debts.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The Bible encourages responsible financial behavior and warns against the dangers of excessive debt. Proverbs 22:7 states, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender" . This proverb serves as a caution against becoming ensnared by debt, which can lead to a loss of freedom and autonomy.

Furthermore, the Bible calls for compassion and fairness in lending practices. Exodus 22:25 instructs, "If you lend money to one of My people among you who is poor, you must not be like a moneylender; you must not charge him interest" . This command reflects God's concern for the vulnerable and His desire for His people to act justly and mercifully.

Spiritual Indebtedness

Beyond financial obligations, the Bible speaks of a spiritual indebtedness that all humanity owes to God due to sin. This debt is one that cannot be repaid by human means. However, through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, believers are offered forgiveness and redemption. Colossians 2:13-14 explains, "When you were dead in your trespasses and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our trespasses, having canceled the debt ascribed to us in the decrees that stood against us. He took it away, nailing it to the cross" .

This spiritual liberation from the debt of sin is central to the Christian faith and serves as a model for how believers are to forgive others and manage their own obligations.