Does the Bible say debt should be forgiven?

Asked by: Rossie Upton Jr.  |  Last update: May 26, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (34 votes)

Similarly, in Deuteronomy 15, God says that every seven years, creditors should “remit the claim that is held against a neighbor” because “the Lord's remission has been proclaimed.” In the New Testament, Jesus instructs his followers to pray “forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12, ...

Is debt a sin according to the Bible?

It's not a sin to borrow money. But the mindset that values hard work seeks as often as possible not to take out debt.

Where in the Bible does it say debt cancelled after 7 years?

Deuteronomy 15:1-3 The Message (MSG)

At the end of every seventh year, cancel all debts. This is the procedure: Everyone who has lent money to a neighbor writes it off. You must not press your neighbor or his brother for payment: All-Debts-Are-Canceled—GOD says so.

How does the Bible say to get out of debt?

If you borrow money from anyone, you should pay him or her back as soon as possible. That is the right thing to do. The Bible says, “The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives” (Psalm 37:21 – ESV).

Where in the Bible does it say forgave his debt?

Matthew 18:23-33 Amplified Bible (AMP)

So the slave fell on his knees and begged him, saying, 'Have patience with me and I will repay you everything. ' And his master's heart was moved with compassion and he released him and forgave him [canceling]the debt.

FREE YOURSELF FROM DEBT WITH THESE POWERFUL SCRIPTURES

37 related questions found

Does the Bible say all debt should be forgiven?

The forgiveness of debt is a core principle of Christianity. As Romans 13:8 says, we should “let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law” (NIV).

What happens every 7 years in the Bible?

In Leviticus 25, we find the first reference to Jubilee, as part of the law given by Yahweh to the Israelites. These verses describe God's intent that the Israelites should remain free from slavery for all time by instituting a Sabbath year every seven years.

Is it a sin to collect debt?

Remember, the Bible never says that borrowing is a sin. However, it cautions us not to become enslaved to creditors. One of the ways we can honor Jesus' sacrifice is to avoid such entanglements.

How can God get me out of debt?

Seven Steps for Getting Out of Debt
  1. The first thing of most importance is to have the right view of God. ...
  2. Find this right view through scripture and because of that, through Jesus Christ. ...
  3. Pray. ...
  4. Be honest with yourself about your debts. ...
  5. Make a budget and stick to it. ...
  6. Be grateful if you have a job and do it well.

Can I stop tithing to pay off debt?

Should I tithe while trying to pay off debt? If you're in debt, tithing should still be a priority. Listen, I know it's tempting to throw that money at your debt, but the discipline and faith that tithing brings are so worth it. Even while you're paying down debt, you can still have an attitude of generosity.

What does Jesus say about repaying debt?

Matthew 6:12 - Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Matthew 18:27, 30, 32, 34 - Forgive because your debts have been forgiven. Luke 7:42-43 - He who is forgiven much (debt) loves much; he who is forgiven little (debt) loves little. Romans 4:4 - Wages, like a debt owed, must be paid.

How long until debt is forgiven?

Some debts, though, such as federal student loans don't have a statute of limitations. Most states or jurisdictions have statutes of limitations between three and six years for debts, but some may be longer. This may also vary depending, for instance, on the: Type of debt.

When were debts forgiven in the Bible?

The jubilee was also a time to cancel debts. "At the end of every seven-year period you shall have a relaxation of debts" (Deuteronomy 15:1-2). (As the Third Millennium Draws Near, 13). As Christians, we interpret this tradition in light of Christ's ministry and message to us.

What does the Bible say about tattoos?

You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.” What does the Bible say about tattoos? That's it—that one line in Leviticus 19:28 of the Old Testament. But context is key—and this scripture may not apply to us in the way it looks.

What does God say about paying bills?

Pay everyone whatever you owe them. If you owe taxes, pay them. If you owe tolls, pay them. If you owe someone respect, respect that person.

How to pray when someone owes you money?

You might say to God: “Heavenly Father, I lift this person up to you and put this situation in your hands. Please give me wisdom. Please bless this person financially so they will never feel the need to borrow in the future.

What is a powerful prayer for debt?

Dear God, I pray for relief from the burden and unbearable weight of debt. I'm so thankful that even though I may have made bad choices that got me into debt, You are much bigger than my mistakes. I ask for deliverance from the stress of debt.

What does God say about struggling financially?

Turning to Bible verses for financial struggles can be incredibly helpful. Verses such as Philippians 4:19, which states, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus,” are a reminder that God is a faithful provider.

Can you be forgiven for debt?

With debt forgiveness, creditors pardon some or all of your debt. Various types of debt may qualify for forgiveness. Debt forgiveness can offer relief from overwhelming financial burdens, but it does have downsides. Debt forgiveness is only one option for managing difficulties with repayment.

What did Jesus say about borrowing money?

The first time the New Testament mentions Jesus saying anything to do with lending is Matthew 5:42. Here, Jesus says, “Give to every- one who begs from you and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.” Borrow means getting “tem- porary use of money etc. to be returned …

Does God forgive debt?

Jesus also taught us to ask God to "forgive us our debts [sins] as we forgive our debtors [those who sin against us]" (Matthew 6:12, Luke 11:4). Sin creates a spiritual debt.

Is debt a curse or blessing?

Debts & loans are Blessings when managed prudently, but become a curse when used abruptly. Gone are the days when our fathers, grandfathers bought house & vehicles in cash. Money generally borrowed from relatives & friends, banking system & credit institutions were not so user friendly and reachable to masses.

Does the Bible say to cancel debt?

Deuteronomy 15:1-6 (NIV) At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. 2 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.

What happens before the rapture?

Jesus told us about the events that happens just before the rapture. The first one is, the antichrist must setup an image in the Jewish rebuilt temple first. After this, there will be the great tribulation, which is the persecution of all believers in Christ.