Exodus:21

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* Verse 1-11 - The laws in this chapter relate to the fifth and sixth commandments ; and though they differ from our times and customs , nor are they binding on us , yet they explain the moral law , and the rules of natural justice . The servant , in the state of servitude , was an emblem of that state of bondage to sin , Satan , and the law , which man is brought into by robbing God of his glory , by the transgression of his precepts . Likewise in being made free , he was an emblem of that liberty wherewith Christ , the Son of God , makes free from bondage his people , who are free indeed ; and made so freely , without money and without price , of free grace . * Verse 12-21 - God , who by his providence gives and maintains life , by his law protects it . A wilful murderer shall be taken even from God 's altar . But God provided cities of refuge to protect those whose unhappiness it was , and not their fault , to cause the death of another ; for such as by accident , when a man is doing a lawful act , without intent of hurt , happens to kill another . Let children hear the sentence of God 's word upon the ungrateful and disobedient ; and remember that God will certainly requite it , if they have ever cursed their parents , even in their hearts , or have lifted up their hands against them , except they repent , and flee for refuge to the Saviour . And let parents hence learn to be very careful in training up their children , setting them a good example , especially in the government of their passions , and in praying for them ; taking heed not to provoke them to wrath . Through poverty the Israelites sometimes sold themselves or their children ; magistrates sold some persons for their crimes , and creditors were in some cases allowed to sell their debtors who could not pay . But "man-stealing ," the object of which is to force another into slavery , is ranked in the New Testament with the greatest crimes . Care is here taken , that satisfaction be made for hurt done to a person , though death do not follow . The gospel teaches masters to forbear , and to moderate threatenings , Ephesians strkjv @6:9 ,. considering with Job , What shall I do , when God riseth up ? Job strkjv @31:13 ,14 . * Verse 22-36 - The cases here mentioned give rules of justice then , and still in use , for deciding similar matters . We are taught by these laws , that we must be very careful to do no wrong , either directly or indirectly . If we have done wrong , we must be very willing to make it good , and be desirous that nobody may lose by us . **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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