Exodus·Chapter 21

How to Apply

So, how can you live this out this week? Take a moment to think about your commitments. Is there a relationship or a responsibility in your life where you need to express your willingness to stay? Maybe it’s telling a friend how much they mean to you or deciding to invest time in a project you care about. You could even write down what you’re committed to and why it matters to you. Make it a declaration of your loyalty and love. It’s all about choosing to be devoted to what really matters to you!

Chapter Context

Alright, let’s zoom out a bit. This verse comes in the middle of laws about how to treat servants and the responsibilities of masters. Earlier, we read about the rules that govern their relationships, emphasizing fairness and care. By this moment, we see that some individuals have grown to love their life with their masters so much that they want to stay forever. This verse marks a turning point where service becomes a choice rooted in love rather than obligation. It’s like a climactic moment in a story where someone says, 'This is where I belong!' And after this, the chapter continues to outline more laws, showing how society should function with respect and kindness.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• master - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• bring - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• god - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• bring - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• door - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• doorpost - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• master - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• bore - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• ear - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• awl - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does commitment mean to you, and how can you choose to express it more deeply in your relationships this week?

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 15:16-17 - Talks about the same idea of a servant choosing to stay with their master, showing that commitment is a mutual choice.
• Matthew 6:24 - Highlights the idea that you can't fully serve two masters; it's about choosing where your loyalty lies.
• Romans 12:1 - Encourages you to present yourself as a living sacrifice, emphasizing that commitment is a powerful and personal choice.
• 1 Corinthians 7:21-23 - Discusses being content in your current situation, whether in servitude or freedom, and how your choices shape your life.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Exodus 21:6. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Slavery and Freedom, Justice and Mercy, Family Rights, Social Responsibility, Capital Punishment, Restitution, Community Ethics

Key Verses

Exodus 21:2, Exodus 21:6, Exodus 21:12, Exodus 21:16, Exodus 21:20

Historical Context

Exodus 21 is situated within the broader context of the Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. This chapter follows the Ten Commandments and continues to establish a legal framework that governs various aspects of life. The laws reflect the social, economic, and moral realities of ancient Israelite society, designed to promote justice and order. These regulations also highlight God's desire for His people to live in a way that reflects His character, emphasizing the importance of ethical treatment of others, especially the vulnerable. Understanding this context is essential for interpreting the specific laws in light of God's covenant with Israel.