The principle behind the list of laws in Exodus 22:1-15 is the right that every person has to benefit from their work. It is a matter of justice that this right is to be protected. Each person must be enabled to freely enjoy the produce of their labour. This means that, wherever loss has been caused, whether by direct misdeed or by neglect, restitution is to be made. But note here how human life is still regarded as more important than property. For even the life of the thief is protected (22:3). This underlines the biblical view of life as sacred and in a sense the laws regarding property here are closely related to those dealing with the sanctity of life. These laws protect quality of life. The ideal situation upheld by the Bible is the situation in which, as Micah puts it, “Every man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree” (4:4). But it is also important to note a biblical perspective that moves beyond this. God calls us, particularly through Christ, to be prepared to put aside our personal rights for the sake of others. I have a right to enjoy what I earn, but God asks me to allow others to benefit from what I have earned. We have benefited from what Christ earned in his perfect life and atoning death. In this we receive the salvation and blessing we did not deserve. This principle of grace (that is, unmerited blessing) is to become the dominant principle of our lives. We should maintain justice, but also show grace and generosity to others.
Think about where you can support the cause of justice but also where you can show grace and generosity to others.
Read Exodus 22:1-15
