Biblical Answer

The Nature of Medical Debt

From a biblical perspective, medical debt can be seen as a form of indebtedness to God, rather than a moral or sinful issue in and of itself. The Bible teaches that sin is a form of indebtedness to God, and that our inability to pay the debt of sin is what requires the vicarious atonement of Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:12). In this sense, medical debt is not inherently sinful, but rather a result of human frailty and the consequences of our actions.

The Relationship between Debt and Sin

While debt is not inherently sinful, the way we respond to debt can be. As Larry Burkett notes, the biblical definition of debt is the inability to meet obligations agreed upon. In the case of medical debt, this can mean that individuals are unable to pay for medical expenses, even if they have made every effort to do so. In such cases, God demands that the debt be paid, but also provides satisfaction for that debt through the atonement of Jesus Christ. This is in line with Anselm's understanding of sin as a debt that requires atonement, and with the idea that God is both just and the justifier of those who trust in him (Romans 3:26).

The Importance of Responsibility and Stewardship

While medical debt may not be inherently sinful, it is still important for individuals to take responsibility for their financial obligations and to live in a way that reflects biblical values of stewardship and responsibility. This can involve making wise financial decisions, seeking help when necessary, and being mindful of the consequences of our actions. By doing so, we can avoid unnecessary debt and demonstrate our trust in God's provision and care for us. As the Bible teaches, "the borrower is slave to the lender" (Proverbs 22:7), and living in a way that reflects biblical values can help us to avoid this kind of bondage and live in freedom and joy.