The civil law of the nation of Israel was given by God. It was based on the principles of the Ten Commandments. These moral principles were applied on a case-by-case basis. As the church today is not a nation, we cannot apply Israel’s civil law in the same manner as the nation of Israel. We can, however, draw the principles behind Israel’s civil law and then apply these principles to the church.

Israel’s civil law for servants were given by God for the protection of servants and masters; and it reflects the character of God.

1. Justice and fairness in God’s law (Exod 21:2-4)

God’s law for servants and masters in Exodus 21:2-4 shows that God is just and fair. He protects both master and servant. The servant has rights, too. And God cares for the servants. This law is based on God’s compassion and love.

2. Liberty in God’s law (Exod 21:5-6)

The Hebrew slave had the liberty to leave at the end of his 6^th year of service. However, he could choose not to leave, but to stay to serve his master because of his love for his master. The master then “shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for ever” (Exod 21:6). This shows that while the slave had the choice to stay to serve his master, he had to be committed to serve that one master permanently.

Christians are also referred to as slaves; and God tells us that we cannot serve two masters! Are we willing to serve our Master? People of the world jump at the opportunity to serve famous or important people. But not many Christians would jump at the opportunity to serve God.

3. Precision in God’s law (Exod 21:7-11)

Exodus 21:7-11 shows that maidservants and manservants were treated differently. Maidservants were not to go out into the fields (Exod 21:7). They were not to be resold to other masters, but were allowed to be redeemed from slavery (Exod 21:8). If a maidservant was taken as a second wife, she was to be well taken care of (Exod 21:10). Otherwise, she could “go out free without money” (Exod 21:11). The provision here is to protect the maidservant and to prevent abuse.

God’s civil law for servants shows us God’s compassion, love and care for His people. And this, in turn, teaches His people to show compassion, love and care to one another. May God help us to do this.