More Strange Ways to Make a Profit (Deuteronomy 15. 12-23)

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Study Notes: More Strange Ways to Make a Profit (Deuteronomy 15:12-23)

Key Themes:

• Freedom and Redemption:
  • Every seven years, slaves were set free, debts forgiven, and lives restored. This system highlights God's compassion and wisdom, offering a fresh start.
• Slavery in Ancient Israel:
  • Different from the modern understanding of slavery.
  • Old Testament slavery in Israel was often a result of debt or crime.
  • Slaves worked for a maximum of six years before being set free.
  • The system provided protections and aimed to avoid oppression.
• Release from Slavery (Deuteronomy 15:12-23):
  • Hebrew slaves were to be freed in the seventh year of service.
  • Owners were instructed not to send freed slaves away empty-handed but to provide them with resources.
  • This ensured freed individuals could establish a new life, reflecting God's generosity and desire for social equity.
• God’s Example of Redemption:
  • Israelites were reminded of their own history as slaves in Egypt and God’s redemption.
  • They were called to emulate God’s example of care and provision.
• Generosity and Fairness:
  • Releasing slaves and providing for them was a principle that invited God's blessing.
  • Giving generously, even when counterintuitive, aligns with God’s principles.
• Sanctification of Firstborn Animals (Deuteronomy 15:19-23):
  • Firstborn animals were to be dedicated to God, not used for personal gain.
  • This act recognized God’s provision and reinforced dependence on Him.

Practical Applications:

• Living Out God’s Love:
  • Release others from metaphorical "debts" and offer forgiveness.
  • Extend grace and support to those in need, reflecting God’s heart for justice and compassion.
• Generosity and Provision:
  • Embrace a lifestyle of giving the best of our resources—time, talents, and finances—to God.
  • Trust in God’s promise to bless those who give generously.
• Modern Parallels:
  • Consider voluntary commitments in modern contexts, like military service or professional sports, to understand ancient servitude.
  • Apply the principles of justice and generosity in contemporary settings.
• Blessings Through Generosity:
  • Generous actions are a seed sown into God’s fertile ground, promising a return of grace and provision.
  • The principle of sowing and reaping is echoed in the New Testament (2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Philippians 4:15-19).

Conclusion:

Deuteronomy 15:12-23 challenges us to embrace generosity, justice, and compassion. By forgiving debts, freeing those bound, providing for others, and dedicating our best to God, we align with His heart and invite His blessings. These principles are timeless and relevant, encouraging us to reflect God's character in our actions and trust in His promises.

Transcript

More Strange Ways to Make a Profit. (Deuteronomy 15: 12-23)

Transcript.

Imagine waking up one morning to find all your debts erased, all your burdens lifted, and a fresh start laid out before you. It's a scenario most of us can only dream about. But what if I told you that this dream was a reality in ancient Israel? What if I told you that God, in His incredible wisdom and compassion, instituted a system where every seven years, slaves were set free, debts were forgiven, and lives were restored?

Counter-intuitive though they may be the are still ways in which we can experience the blessing and prosperity in our lives.

Today, we're continuing our journey through Deuteronomy 15: this time looking at 12-23, where God lays out His radical and transformative plan for freedom and redemption.

This passage isn't just a glimpse into an ancient tradition; it's a powerful reminder of God's heart for His people—a heart that longs for freedom, restoration, and new beginnings.

As we explore these verses, we'll uncover principles that I believe can transform your life today. 

We'll see how God's call to release slaves and forgive debts challenges us to live out His love in profound and practical ways. 

What we're about to discover is not just history—it's a divine invitation to experience and extend God's radical grace in our own lives....

I mentioned there were three things disclosed I this chapter as ways of God would plan to prosper his people in this chapter.

The first is the realise of those in debt, which we looked at that yesterday.

The second is the release from slavery, and we will begin by looking at that now.

But before we even do that, I feel I need to explain exactly what the Old Testament means when it talks about slavery (sometimes translated bond-servants) among the Israelite nation. 

So, this brings up the whole issue of slavery and what the Bible have to say about slavery. 

Does the Bible promote slavery, I need to first of all say, definitely not. 

Well then what does the Bible say if it's not promoting, it, what exactly is going on?  

Our modern view of slavery is one that has been formed through the abomination of slavery in America and Europe prior to the American Civil war, or the African slave trade promoted and exploited by mainly European countries up until the abolitionist movement inspired by the like of William Wilberforce in the 18th and 19th century. 

I would simply like to point out that it was Christians who first freed the slaves, and that process started in England among Evangelical Christians many years ago and spread to the United States who fought a civil war over it.  

But I would also point that slavery still exists in some parts of the world, but not legally in any Christian country or culture. 

In the Old Testament period a form of slavery or bonded service existed, at that time, but it was a long way off what we have come to recognize what the slave trade in Europe and America was like. 

If God word had been followed, then the modern version of the slave trade would never have been allowed. 

In Old Testament law an Israelites could only end up in slavery for two reasons.

One was because of debt, the other was because of crime. 

In the event of financial problems or debt an individual could voluntarily sell themselves into slavery to pay off their debt and to avoid the repercussions of their situations affected their wider family. 

In the other situation a criminal could be placed into the custody of a Master who would re-imburse the victim of the offender’s crime.  

Those in this type of slaves could only be forced to work a maximum of 6 years after which they had to be freed.

However sometimes they would stay on as part of the extended family by agreement. 

Old Testament law provided protections for those held in this type of bonded service from oppressive masters and they were only allowed to work a maximum of 6 days out of seven, with the sabbath being a rest day. 

So, the type of slavery seen in the Old Testament can’t really be compared to the African slave trade.

Let's dive into Deuteronomy 15:12-23, where we find God's instructions on releasing these Hebrew slaves after six years of service.

As I said in the introduction this passage reveals important insights into God's heart for justice, compassion, and restoration.

Verse 12 begins with a directive:

If any of your people—Hebrew men or women—sell themselves to you and serve you six years, in the seventh year you must let them go free.

Though it says "serve you for six years," it's clear from this passage and others in the Mosaic Law that this refers to either voluntary servitude or indentured servitude, where an individual could sell themselves to work for someone else. 

However, after six years, they were to be set free. During those six years, the owner provided minimal care for for them, but in the seventh year, they gained their freedom.

To understand this better, consider modern parallels. When someone enlists in the military, they essentially give up their freedom for a period, obeying orders and following a strict schedule. 

Similarly, in professional sports, athletes under contract must adhere to the team's demands until their contract expires. 

These analogies help us grasp the concept of servitude in ancient Israel.

And when you release them, do not send them away empty-handed. Supply them liberally from your flock, your threshing floor and your winepress. Give to them as the Lord your God has blessed you.

(Deuteronomy 15: 13-14)

Verses 13-14 emphasize that when setting a servant free, one must not send them away empty-handed. Instead, they should be supplied with something from the owner's flock, or threshing floor, or the  winepress, from wherever they worked.. 

This ensures that the freed individual has the resources to establish a new life, preventing them from becoming destitute. This provision reflects God's generosity and desire for social equity.

Verse 15 reminds the Israelites of their own history:

Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you. That is why I give you this command today

God calls His people to emulate His example of redemption and care. Just as He freed and provided for them, they are to do the same for others.

A poignant application of this principle is found in treating others as God has treated us. In counselling, for example, this idea often surfaces in discussions about forgiveness and grace.

Treating others with the same mercy and kindness we've received from God transforms relationships and communities.

Verses 16-18 adds.

16 But if your servant says to you, “I do not want to leave you,” because he loves you and your family and is well off with you, 17 then take an awl and push it through his earlobe into the door, and he will become your servant for life. Do the same for your female servant.18 Do not consider it a hardship to set your servant free, because their service to you these six years has been worth twice as much as that of a hired hand. And the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do.

(Deuteronomy 15: 16-18)

The underlying principle is clear: generosity and fairness lead to God's blessing.  This passage teaches that giving generously, even when it seems counterintuitive, invites God's blessing.

OK that’s the second principle for societal and personal prosperity, now let’s conclude with the third.

Lastly, verses 19-23 discuss the sanctification of firstborn animals, highlighting God's claim on the first and best of everything.

Set apart for the Lord your God every firstborn male of your herds and flocks. Do not put the firstborn of your cows to work, and do not shear the firstborn of your sheep. Each year you and your family are to eat them in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose. If an animal has a defect, is lame or blind, or has any serious flaw, you must not sacrifice it to the Lord your God. You are to eat it in your own towns. Both the ceremonially unclean and the clean may eat it, as if it were gazelle or deer. But you must not eat the blood; pour it out on the ground like water.

(Deuteronomy 15: 19-23)

The firstborn animals belonged to God, and they were not to be used for personal gain. Instead, they were to be sanctified and presented to the Lord. This meant not working the firstborn animals or shearing their wool for profit. The Israelites were to bring these firstborn animals to the sanctuary, which God would designate, and there they would share a communal meal with their families. This practice emphasized the importance of recognizing that the firstborn belongs to the Lord.

This practice reinforced the Israelites' dependence on God and acknowledged His provision.

God required the best from His people, and any firstborn animal with a defect could not be offered as a sacrifice. Instead, these animals could be consumed at home by the owners

The principle here is clear: the firstborn belongs to God, and the Israelites were to honour this by giving their best to Him. This act of giving back to God not only showed their devotion but also brought blessings upon them. The communal meal at the sanctuary served as a reminder of God's provision and their dependence on Him.

This passage has significant implications for us today. While we may not be under the Mosaic Law, the principles of giving our best to God, honouring Him with our resources, and recognizing His provision remain relevant.

It's not just about giving money but also our time, talents, and the best of what we have. God calls us to be generous, and in doing so, we are promised His blessings.

In conclusion, this whole chapter we looked at today and yesterday challenges us to embrace a lifestyle of generosity, justice, and compassion. 

By releasing people from debt, setting bond-servants free, providing for their needs, and dedicating our best to God, we align ourselves with His heart and invite His abundant blessings into our lives. 

These actions were not just legal requirements but expressions of God's heart for justice, compassion, and generosity. By following these commands, the Israelites were assured of God's blessings.

Although we live in a different context, the principle of God's blessing in response to generosity still applies.

In the New Testament, this is echoed in 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, where Paul writes about the law of sowing and reaping. He encourages believers to give generously and cheerfully, promising that God will provide abundantly for every good work.

So, as we reflect on Deuteronomy 15, let's embrace the timeless principle of giving our best to God, trusting in His promise to bless us. Whether it's through our finances, time, or talents, may we honour Him with our generosity and experience the fullness of His blessings in our lives.

"Give generously and do it with joy! 

Remember, there's a principle of sowing and reaping when it comes to finances and giving to the Lord. As verse 8 in 2 Corinthians 9 says, 

'God is able to make all grace abound toward you.'

When you give money, God provides for you. He ensures you have all you need to continue doing good works. Essentially, He's saying that when you give, He will supply you with more so you can keep giving.

To illustrate this further, let’s me close by turning to Philippians chapter 4.

This entire book is essentially a thank-you note from Paul to the church in Philippi for their financial support of his ministry.

In verse 15, Paul acknowledges that they were the only church that consistently sent him money. He wasn’t seeking their gifts for personal gain; he wanted them to be blessed for their generosity. 

In verse 18, Paul mentions that their gift, delivered through Epaphroditus, was a ‘sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.’

Paul then makes an incredible promise in verse 19: 

‘But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’

Notice he doesn’t say ‘out of His riches’ but ‘according to His riches.’ It’s one thing for a rich man to give you money from his account; it’s another for him to give according to the wealth he possesses.

If he has millions, giving according to his riches means he’s giving in a way that reflects his vast resources. This is what God promises to those who give to His work.

Paul’s message is clear: when you support God's work, God will meet all your needs abundantly. This principle is echoed in both 2 Corinthians 9 and Philippians 4, emphasizing that God’s provision follows our generosity.

While we shouldn't give solely to receive, it's undeniable that God blesses those who bless others financially. This principle is woven throughout the Bible and is something we should embrace wholeheartedly.

So let’s not just take mental notes from the podcast today; let’s give generously and joyfully, knowing that God’s blessings will follow our generosity. This is the heart of true giving: not just words, but actions that reflect God’s love and provision."

As we come to the close of our reflection on Deuteronomy 15:12-23, let's take a moment to appreciate the wisdom embedded in this passage.

God’s commands regarding debt, slavery, and the firstborn animals might seem distant from our modern context, but they offer principles that resonate deeply with us today.

Imagine a society where generosity and justice are not just ideals but practiced norms. Where debts are forgiven, slaves are freed, and the firstborn—symbolizing our very best—are offered to God with gratitude.

In this vision, every act of giving is not a loss but a gain, because it aligns with God's promises of blessing.

When God instructs us to release our debtors and free our servants, He is not just asking us to act with kindness; He’s inviting us into a cycle of divine blessing.

By releasing others, we are opening ourselves up to receive more from Him—more grace, more provision, and more opportunities to do good. 

As we honour God with our best—our time, talents, and resources—we are assured that He will supply our needs abundantly. He doesn’t just give from His resources but according to His limitless riches.

Let this be an encouragement to you: your acts of generosity are never in vain. Every gift, every act of kindness, every effort to bless others is a seed sown into God’s fertile ground. And in return, He promises to offer you with His grace and provide for all your needs.

So, remember that your generosity reflects God’s character and invites His blessings into your life.

Give generously, give joyfully, and trust that God is faithful to His promises. In God’s economy, giving is not a loss but a gateway to blessing.

Rejoice in the knowledge that our generous acts are making a difference, both in the lives of others and in the unfolding of God's plan in or lives and the lives of those around us. Let us give with hearts full of joy, knowing that as we bless others, God’s promises are true and His blessings are sure.