Usury in the new testament

The concept of usury in the New Testament is a complex and debated topic among biblical scholars and theologians. In the New Testament, usury is not explicitly defined or condemned, but there are several passages that address the issue of lending and borrowing money with interest.

In the Old Testament, usury was strictly prohibited in Deuteronomy 23:19-20 and Leviticus 25:35-37, as it was seen as a form of exploitation and oppression of the poor. However, in the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from a strict prohibition to a more nuanced approach that emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Here are some key passages that relate to usury in the New Testament:

  1. Luke 6:34-35: Jesus teaches that lenders should forgive debts and not demand payment with interest. This passage is often seen as a call to generosity and compassion, rather than a strict prohibition on usury.
  2. Matthew 5:42: Jesus teaches that his followers should lend to others without expecting repayment. This passage is often seen as a call to selfless generosity, rather than a prohibition on usury.
  3. Romans 13:8: Paul writes that we should owe no one anything, except to love one another. This passage is often seen as a call to live a life of love and generosity, rather than a prohibition on usury.
  4. 1 Corinthians 6:5: Paul writes that believers should not go to court to settle disputes over money, but rather should seek to resolve them through mediation and forgiveness. This passage is often seen as a call to avoid litigation and to seek reconciliation, rather than a prohibition on usury.

Some biblical scholars argue that the New Testament does not explicitly condemn usury because the concept of usury was not as widespread or problematic in the ancient Mediterranean world as it was in ancient Israel. Others argue that the New Testament's emphasis on generosity, compassion, and forgiveness implies a rejection of usury, even if it is not explicitly stated.

In summary, while the New Testament does not explicitly condemn usury, it does emphasize the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion, and generosity, which can be seen as a rejection of usury. The issue of usury is complex and nuanced, and different biblical scholars and theologians may have different interpretations of the relevant passages.