Ep. 99. Exodus 21-23 - How Does the Bible Explain Slavery?

Ep. 99. Exodus 21-23 - How Does the Bible Explain Slavery?

From The Bible Show by Sam and Will

May 12, 2026 · 1h 26m · Season 25 · Episode 188

About this episode

The episode discusses the civil laws in Exodus 21-23, focusing on biblical slavery and its moral implications.

Want to partner with us and help make more content like this possible? Donate Here: https://secure.ncfgiving.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0UVx000009MGYoMAO Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit http://crossway.org/bemerry to learn how to get thirty percent off with a free Crossway plus account. This episode of The Bible Show continues after the Ten Commandments by walking through Exodus 20 to 23 and explaining why the “civil laws” can feel difficult and confusing for modern readers. Sam and Will talk about the fear of the Lord (reverential awe), why God immediately gives instructions for an altar, and how the law exposes our need for atonement. They spend significant time discussing biblical slavery in the ancient world, especially the protections and limits God puts in place to guard the vulnerable and prevent exploitation. You will also hear how these laws point to bigger moral principles like justice, restitution, and care for the sojourner, widow, fatherless, and poor. Finally, they connect Exodus themes to the gospel, including a picture of covenant faithfulness and a striking passage about an “angel” whose name is in him. If you have ever struggled to read the Old…

People in this episode

Hosts: Sam, Will

Topics covered

  • biblical slavery
  • civil laws
  • Exodus
  • moral principles
  • atonement
  • covenant faithfulness

Keywords

  • slavery
  • Exodus 21-23
  • civil laws
  • atonement
  • justice
  • Old Testament
  • moral message

Sponsors

Crossway

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Crossway

Books & works: Exodus

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