In biblical terms, "debtors" refers to individuals or groups who owe something, whether it be money, goods, or services, to another party. The concept of debt and debtors is addressed in various contexts throughout the Bible, often carrying both literal and metaphorical meanings.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the concept of debt is primarily financial. The Mosaic Law provided specific guidelines for lending and borrowing, emphasizing fairness and compassion. For instance, in Deuteronomy 15:1-2 , it is written: "At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel any loan they have made to a fellow Israelite. They shall not require payment from anyone among their own people, because the LORD’s time for canceling debts has been proclaimed." This "Year of Release" was intended to prevent the accumulation of insurmountable debt and to promote social equity among the Israelites.

The Old Testament also warns against the exploitation of debtors. In Exodus 22:25 , the Israelites are instructed: "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 command underscores the importance of compassion and justice in financial dealings.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of debt extends beyond the financial realm to encompass spiritual and moral obligations. Jesus frequently used the metaphor of debt to illustrate the human condition and the need for divine forgiveness. In the Lord's Prayer, as recorded in Matthew 6:12 , Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." Here, "debts" symbolize sins or transgressions, and the prayer emphasizes the reciprocal nature of forgiveness.

The parable of the Unforgiving Servant in Matthew 18:23-35 further illustrates this point. In the account, a servant who is forgiven a massive debt by his master refuses to forgive a fellow servant who owes him a much smaller amount. The parable concludes with a stern warning about the consequences of failing to extend the same mercy one has received: "In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed" (Matthew 18:34).

Theological Implications

Theologically, the concept of debt in the Bible serves as a powerful metaphor for the human condition and the need for redemption. Humanity is portrayed as being in debt to God due to sin, a debt that cannot be repaid through human effort. The sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are presented as the means by which this debt is forgiven, offering believers the hope of reconciliation with God.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, often speaks of the believer's obligation to live according to the Spirit rather than the flesh. In Romans 8:12-13 , he writes, "Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." Here, the "obligation" or "debt" is to live a life that reflects the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Applications

The biblical teachings on debt and debtors have practical implications for Christian living. Believers are encouraged to practice financial responsibility, to lend generously without expecting repayment, and to forgive others as they have been forgiven by God. The principles of justice, mercy, and compassion are to guide all interactions, reflecting the character of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In summary, the concept of debt and debtors in the Bible encompasses both financial and spiritual dimensions, offering profound insights into human relationships and the nature of divine grace.