Biblical Answer

Understanding Medical Debt from a Biblical Perspective

When considering whether medical debt is a sin, we must first recognize that the Bible does not explicitly address medical debt. However, we can draw insights from its teachings on debt, sin, and the role of God in our lives. From a biblical perspective, sin is often described as a debt or an obligation to God, which requires payment or atonement. This concept is seen in passages like Matthew 6:12, where Jesus teaches us to pray, "Forgive us our debts."

While medical debt may not be considered sinful or criminal in the classical sense, it can still be seen as a moral obligation to God. The Bible teaches that we are accountable to God for our actions, including our financial decisions. As Larry Burkett notes, the scriptural definition of debt is the inability to meet obligations agreed upon. In this sense, medical debt represents a debt that we cannot pay, but God demands payment. However, God also provides satisfaction for this debt through the vicarious atonement of Christ.

In this context, medical debt can be seen as a reminder of our need for God's provision and forgiveness. Just as Anselm argued that Christ's obedience to the law and suffering of the penalty on our behalf satisfies our debt to God, so too can we find comfort in knowing that God's sovereignty and provision cover our financial struggles, including medical debt. Ultimately, the question of whether medical debt is a sin is complex and multifaceted, but from a biblical perspective, it serves as a reminder of our need for God's forgiveness, provision, and guidance in all aspects of our lives.