Borrowing And Sin: What The Bible Really Says

Borrowing money is a complex issue that is not explicitly addressed in the Bible. While it is not considered a sin, the Bible offers many warnings about the dangers of debt and the potential for it to create a servant/master relationship, with the borrower becoming the lender's servant. The Bible also emphasizes the importance of repaying debts and warns against using debt to finance wants and desires. It encourages believers to rely on God's provision instead of lenders and to be wise stewards of their finances. Ultimately, the decision to borrow money should be made carefully, considering the potential risks and spiritual implications.

Borrowing money is not a sin, but the Bible warns against it

The Bible also warns against presuming on the future when it comes to debt. By borrowing, we may be denying God the opportunity to provide for us and forcing Him to use a lender to meet our needs. Instead, we should trust in God's promise to supply all our needs (Philippians 4:19) and grow in our faith.

Additionally, the Bible teaches that when money is borrowed, there should be a secure repayment plan in place. Psalm 37:21 says, "The wicked borrows but does not pay back", indicating that it is the failure to repay, not the borrowing itself, that is condemned.

The Bible also provides guidance on our obligations as lenders. We are admonished to lend to those in need, especially the poor, without expecting anything in return (Luke 6:34-35). When those who borrow from us cannot repay, we should release them from the burden of debt and not hold a grudge (Exodus 22:25).

Overall, while borrowing money is not inherently a sin, the Bible cautions against it and provides instructions on responsible borrowing and lending practices.

Borrowing money creates a servant/master relationship

The act of borrowing money can create an unhealthy dynamic between the borrower and the lender, resembling a servant/master relationship. This dynamic is particularly pertinent when considering the biblical perspective on debt and borrowing. When an individual borrows money, they place themselves in a position of obligation and subservience to the lender. They become beholden to the terms and conditions set by the lender and are often at the mercy of their demands.

This servant/master relationship is evident in the Bible, which strongly discourages borrowing and encourages individuals to be content with what they have. Proverbs 22:7 states, "The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender." This verse highlights the power imbalance that arises when one becomes indebted to another. The borrower is placed in a position of weakness, often having to submit to the lender's will and demands.

The Bible recognizes the potential for exploitation and abuse of power in such relationships. When an individual borrows money, they surrender a degree of their autonomy and freedom. They may find themselves in a position where they are constantly striving to meet the lender's expectations and demands, often to their own detriment. This can lead to a cycle of dependency and further indebtedness, as the borrower becomes trapped in a system that benefits the lender.

Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes the importance of honoring commitments and keeping one's word. When an individual borrows money, they enter into a contractual agreement to repay the debt. Failure to do so is considered a breach of trust and integrity. The Bible condemns deceit and dishonesty, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one's obligations. In Psalm 37:21, it is written, "The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives." This verse underscores the expectation that borrowers should honor their commitments and not exploit the trust of the lender.

The Bible encourages lending to those in need without expecting anything in return

While the Bible does not encourage borrowing money, it also does not speak of debt as a sin. Borrowing money is referred to as a form of slavery in the Bible, and when Moses spoke to the people of Israel, borrowing from others was listed as a consequence of disobedience.

However, the Bible encourages lending to those in need without expecting anything in return. In Luke 6:34-35, it is written:

> "And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil."

Here, the Bible sets a higher standard for believers, encouraging them to lend to those in need without expecting repayment. This is further emphasised in Luke 6:35, where it is written, "Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return."

The Bible also provides guidance on the motives of the lender, stating that when those who borrow cannot repay, lenders should release them from the burden of debt and not hold a grudge. This is reflected in Exodus 22:25, which says:

> "If you lend money to any of my people with you who is poor, you shall not be like a moneylender to him, and you shall not exact interest from him."

Additionally, Psalm 37:21 highlights the importance of repayment, stating, "The wicked borrows and does not pay back, but the righteous is gracious and gives."

In summary, while borrowing money is not encouraged in the Bible, lending to those in need without expecting repayment is seen as a virtuous act. Lenders are instructed to have pure motives, release borrowers from debt if they cannot repay, and not charge interest, especially when lending to fellow believers.

The Bible warns against borrowing to finance wants and desires

The Bible contains several warnings and principles that strongly advise against borrowing to finance our wants and desires. While borrowing is not explicitly condemned as a sin, the act of going into debt to fulfill our worldly cravings is strongly discouraged. This is because debt can lead to harmful consequences, both spiritually and practically.

One key principle in the Bible is the importance of contentment and simplicity. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:6-8, "Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." This verse encourages us to be satisfied with what we have and not pursue excessive desires. Borrowing to finance our wants goes directly against this principle, as it often leads to a cycle of debt and dissatisfaction.

Additionally, the Bible warns against the love of money and the dangers of materialism. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10, Paul writes, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." Borrowing to finance our wants can lead us down a path of prioritizing material possessions over our spiritual well-being and the needs of others. It can also enslave us to our lenders, as Proverbs 22:7 warns, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender."

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of wise stewardship and financial discipline. In Proverbs 21:20, we read, "The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down." This encourages us to save and plan for the future rather than borrowing to satisfy our immediate desires. Being disciplined with our finances and living within our means is a sign of maturity and good stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to us.

Lastly, borrowing to finance our wants can lead to anxiety and a lack of trust in God's provision. Matthew 6:25-34 encourages us not to worry about our lives, including what we will eat, drink, or wear. Instead, we are to seek first God's kingdom and trust that He will provide for our needs. Borrowing to fulfill our desires can often be a result of not trusting God's provision and trying to take matters into our own hands.

In conclusion, while borrowing in and of itself may not be considered a sin, the Bible strongly warns against going into debt to finance our wants and desires. It encourages contentment, simplicity, wise stewardship, and trust in God's provision. By following these biblical principles, we can avoid the spiritual and practical pitfalls of debt and maintain a healthy relationship with material possessions.

The Bible encourages paying back debts

While the Bible does not encourage borrowing money, it does provide clear instructions on how to deal with debt. The Bible teaches that borrowing money creates a servant/master dynamic, with the borrower becoming the lender's servant. This is supported by various verses, including Proverbs 22:7 and Deuteronomy 28:43-44.

The Bible also warns against presuming on the future, as debt can easily allow us to put the lender in the place of God. This is reflected in Romans 13:8, which states, "Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law." This verse highlights that while financial debt is not prohibited, it is discouraged due to its potential bondage and spiritual dangers.

Despite these warnings, the Bible acknowledges that there may be situations where borrowing is necessary, such as medical emergencies or job layoffs. In such cases, the Bible provides guidance on responsible borrowing and repayment. Psalm 37:21 states, "The wicked borrows but does not pay back," emphasizing the importance of repaying debts. Ecclesiastes also advises against making vows without intending to fulfil them.

The Bible further instructs lenders to extend grace to those who cannot repay their debts. Lenders are admonished to lend to those in need without expecting anything in return, as reflected in Luke 6:34-35.

In summary, while the Bible does not encourage borrowing, it provides clear guidelines on responsible debt management, emphasizing the importance of repaying debts and acting with generosity and love toward one another.

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