Is debt forbidden in the Bible?

Asked by: Jaren Bailey MD  |  Last update: June 5, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (42 votes)

The Bible makes it clear that people are generally expected to pay their debts. Leviticus 25:39. No one will or should advance any argument against this general proposition.

Does the Bible say not to be in debt?

Romans 13:8

8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.

Is it Biblical to be debt free?

One of the key verses often cited is Romans 13:8, which states, 'Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. ' This verse suggests a lifestyle of not being in debt to anyone, promoting financial independence and ethical responsibility.

Does the Bible say debt should be forgiven?

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, ...

Does the Bible say debt is paid?

All of us have a spiritual debt we cannot pay, but the Bible tells us God has paid our debt! He canceled the payment due for our sins and instead accepted the payment His Son Jesus provided when He died on the cross (Colossians 2:14).

Is Debt A Sin? What the Bible Says!

23 related questions found

What does Jesus say about financial 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.

Is it a sin to owing debt?

The Bible never says that going into debt is a sin. However, it issues a very stark warning: “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender”.

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.

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.

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.

How does God view debt?

“The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives” (Psalm 37:21). To refuse to settle our debts is downright wicked, a gross abdication of Christian character. Debt is not always wrong, but in most cases it is inadvisable.

Does God want us to be financially free?

Financial freedom means having enough to provide adequately for your household and to give generously and joyfully to God's work. God wants you to be financially free so you can put Him first in your life and be sensitive to His voice, ready to follow Him whenever -- and wherever -- He leads.

Is it a sin to borrow money?

Borrowing money is not a sin. But it isn't God's best either. Everything in God's Word is designed to keep you at the top in every area of life—including financially. You are called to be the head, not the tail; above, not beneath; and the lender, not the borrower (Deuteronomy 28:12-13).

What does God say about being debt free?

Remember, God loves us and has given us these principles for our benefit. Read the first portion of Romans 13:8 from several different translations: “Owe no man anything” (KJV). “Let no debt remain outstanding” (NIV). “Don't run up debts” (MSG).

What does the Bible say about cremation?

While the Bible doesn't explicitly endorse cremation, there's also no scriptural passage that directly prohibits it.

Can Christians go into debt?

The Bible does not forbid debt, but it does not speak positively of it. It acknowledges that debt is a part of life, but has several warnings that we need to pay attention to. Though debt was a part of the culture in Biblical times, it was very different than today.

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.

What is the 7 year warning in the Bible?

The 7-year tribulation is when Satan will make one final attempt to steal God's throne before he is forever overthrown. This time is marked by great troubles. In other words, it's going to get worse before it gets better—but there is a better coming.

Does the Bible forbid debt?

The Bible makes it clear that people are generally expected to pay their debts. Leviticus 25:39. No one will or should advance any argument against this general proposition.

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.

What does the Bible say about the 7th year?

But in the seventh year the land is to have a sabbath of rest, a sabbath to the LORD. Do not sow your fields or prune your vineyards. Do not reap what grows of itself or harvest the grapes of your untended vines. The land is to have a year of rest.

Are credit cards a sin?

Credit cards have become ubiquitous. For most people, they are a common method of paying for purchases. There are certainly no biblical prohibitions against the use of credit cards.

What does the Bible say about having a mortgage?

However, the Bible cautions God's people against becoming indebted beyond our ability to repay, since we are expected to honor our promises in keeping with Jesus' words to let our “yes” be “yes” according to Matthew 5:37.

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.