ARE YOUR BROTHERS FREE?

Leviticus 25:44-46

Lev 25:44 As for your male and female slaves whom you may have: you may buy male and female slaves from among the nations that are around you.
Lev 25:45 You may also buy from among the temporary residents who are guests with you and their clans that are with you, who have been born in your land, and they may be your property.
Lev 25:46 You may bequeath them to your sons after you to inherit as a permanent possession. You may make slaves of them, but over your brothers the people of Israel you will not rule, one over another ruthlessly.

not over your brothers

The Mosaic laws conceded the slavery that was conceded by everyone else in the ancient near east, but stops short of endorsing it. In fact, God’s law included a limit that set Israel apart. They were not to allow slavery of other Israelites. The whole covenant community had been set free by God’s grace. The whole community was responsible to ensure one another’s perpetual freedom.

LORD, we are our brother’s keepers. Show us how to ensure that we all stay free from bondage.