Deuteronomy 24:15

You are to pay his wages each day before sunset, because he is poor and depends on them. Otherwise he may cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin.

Study Bible

You are to pay his wages each day before sunset
This command reflects the agrarian society of ancient Israel, where day laborers were common. Daily payment ensured that workers could provide for their immediate needs, as many lived hand-to-mouth. The principle of timely payment is rooted in justice and compassion, emphasizing the dignity of labor. This practice is echoed in Leviticus 19:13 and James 5:4, highlighting the importance of fair treatment of workers. The timing "before sunset" underscores the urgency and necessity of meeting the worker's needs promptly.

because he is poor and depends on them
The acknowledgment of the worker's poverty underscores the social responsibility to care for the vulnerable. In ancient Israel, the poor often had no safety net, making daily wages crucial for survival. This reflects God's concern for the marginalized, as seen throughout Scripture, including in Proverbs 22:22-23. The dependency on wages highlights the ethical obligation to ensure that justice is not delayed, as it directly impacts the worker's ability to sustain himself and his family.

Otherwise he may cry out to the LORD against you
This phrase introduces the concept of divine justice, where God is portrayed as the defender of the oppressed. The cry of the poor is a powerful motif in the Bible, seen in Exodus 22:23 and Psalm 34:17, where God hears and responds to the cries of those wronged. It serves as a warning that neglecting the needs of the poor is not just a social injustice but a spiritual offense that God takes seriously.

and you will be guilty of sin
The failure to pay wages promptly is not merely a breach of contract but a moral failing in the eyes of God. This underscores the biblical principle that sin is not only about personal piety but also about social ethics and justice. The guilt of sin here is tied to the mistreatment of others, reflecting the broader biblical theme that true righteousness involves right relationships with both God and neighbor, as seen in Micah 6:8 and Matthew 22:37-40.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The audience receiving the law, God's chosen people, preparing to enter the Promised Land.

3. Hired Worker
The subject of the law, often poor and dependent on daily wages for survival.

4. The LORD
The ultimate judge and protector of the oppressed, to whom the worker may cry out.

5. Promised Land
The context in which these laws are to be applied, emphasizing justice and righteousness in the new society.

Teaching Points

Justice and Fairness
God commands His people to act justly, especially towards those who are vulnerable. Paying wages promptly is a matter of justice.

Dependence on God
The worker's dependence on daily wages reflects our dependence on God for daily provision. We are reminded to trust in God's provision and to be instruments of His provision for others.

Avoiding Sin
Failing to pay wages on time is not just a social injustice but a sin against God. Our actions towards others have spiritual implications.

Compassion and Empathy
Understanding the plight of the poor should lead to compassionate action. We are called to empathize with those in need and act accordingly.

Accountability to God
The passage reminds us that God hears the cries of the oppressed and holds us accountable for our actions towards them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to pay wages daily reflect God's character and His concern for justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of timely and fair compensation in our modern context?

3. How does this passage challenge us to consider the needs of those who are economically vulnerable in our communities?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are acting justly and compassionately towards those who work for us or with us?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to this passage deepen our understanding of God's heart for justice and righteousness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:13
Reinforces the command to not withhold wages, emphasizing fairness and justice.

James 5:4
Warns against the injustice of withholding wages, echoing the cry of the laborers reaching the ears of the Lord.

Proverbs 3:27-28
Advises not to withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.

Malachi 3:5
Lists oppressors of workers among those whom God will judge, highlighting His concern for justice.