The next several chapters list laws concerning various crimes and situations.
Exodus 21
I. RE: Servants (Exodus 21:1-11)
7-year maximum service for Hebrews as slaves
Pierced ears and voluntary servitude
The owner’s responsibility to provide for his slaves
II. RE: Murder and Manslaughter (Exodus 21:12-27)
Murder is a capital crime. Without controversy the 6th commandment forbids murder; and here in the very next chapter is instruction regarding the death penalty for murderers. Yes, execution is taking a life; but doing so at the command of God.
The distinction between manslaughter and murder; and the varying punishments thereof.
Kidnapping is a capital crime.
Extreme dishonor of parents is a capital crime.
Liability for bodily injury to another is covered.
Killing a slave is a crime.
Accidental injury to an unborn child is a crime.
The eye for an eye principle (24-25)
III. RE: Dangerous Animals (Exodus 21:28-36)
Animals who kill people should be put to death.
People who allow their animals to kill people should be put to death.
Exodus 22
I. RE: Stealing and Restitution (Exodus 22:1-6)
Thieves should give back what they’ve stolen double.
If the stolen goods are gone, then the thieves should pay back 4 or 5 times the value.
II. RE: Steward’s Financial Responsibility (Exodus 22:7-15)
If you accept goods for safe keeping, you accept financial responsibility for their loss
III. RE: Premarital sex, Witchcraft and Charity (Exodus 22:16-25)
The practice of dowry.
Witchcraft is a capital crime.
Bestiality is a capital crime.
Worshipping false gods is a capital crime.
Do not take advantage of foreigners, widows or orphans. Remember your own heritage.
IV. RE: Borrowing, Lending and Offering to the Lord (Exodus 22:26-31)
Interest free loans for your family.
God requires the firstborn of all your house–sons and animals.
Meditation Point:
Ye shall be holy (Exodus 22:31). God’s purpose in regulating the affairs of men is that they might see that God has standards of thought, word and deed.
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