In the biblical context, creditors are individuals or entities to whom money is owed. The Bible addresses the relationship between creditors and debtors, emphasizing principles of justice, mercy, and compassion. The practice of remitting debts, particularly in certain circumstances, is a significant theme in the Scriptures, reflecting God's concern for the poor and the equitable treatment of all people.

Old Testament Context

The Mosaic Law contains specific instructions regarding the treatment of debtors and the remission of debts. One of the most notable provisions is the Sabbatical Year, also known as the Year of Release. According to 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."

This commandment underscores the importance of compassion and community solidarity. The remission of debts every seven years was intended to prevent the permanent impoverishment of individuals and families, allowing them to start anew and maintain their dignity and economic stability.

Jubilee Year

In addition to the Sabbatical Year, the Year of Jubilee, which occurred every fifty years, also involved the remission of debts. Leviticus 25:10 states, "And you shall consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you, when each of you is to return to his property and each of you to his clan." The Jubilee Year was a time of restoration, where not only debts were forgiven, but land was returned to its original owners, ensuring that economic disparities did not become entrenched.

Prophetic Warnings

The prophets frequently addressed the issue of unjust creditors and the exploitation of the poor. In Amos 2:6-7 , the prophet condemns those who "sell the righteous for silver and the needy for a pair of sandals. They trample the heads of the poor on the dust of the earth and deny justice to the oppressed." Such practices were contrary to the spirit of the Law, which called for fairness and mercy.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the principles of debt remission are echoed in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Lord's Prayer, as recorded in Matthew 6:12 , includes the petition, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." This reflects the broader spiritual principle of forgiveness and the expectation that believers will extend the same grace to others that they have received from God.

The parable of the unmerciful servant in Matthew 18:23-35 further illustrates the importance of forgiving debts. In this parable, a servant who is forgiven a massive debt by his master refuses to forgive a fellow servant a much smaller debt. The master, upon learning of this, revokes his forgiveness, highlighting the expectation that those who have received mercy should likewise show mercy.

Practical Implications

The biblical mandate for the remission of debts serves as a reminder of the values of mercy, justice, and community responsibility. While the specific practices of the Sabbatical and Jubilee years were unique to ancient Israel, the underlying principles continue to inform Christian ethics and the call to care for the needy and vulnerable in society. The Bible encourages believers to act with generosity and compassion, reflecting the character of God in their financial dealings and relationships.Nehemiah 5:10-12
I likewise, and my brothers, and my servants, might exact of them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 18:27
Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 7:42
And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

What does the Bible say about going into debt? | GotQuestions.org

I am a Christian in debt. What should I do? | GotQuestions.org

Is it right for a church to go into debt? | GotQuestions.org

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