JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your recent question concerning taking interest (usury).

The Bible teaches that, as they are able, Christians are to help persons who are in real need and to refrain from charging interest in such situations. We should LOVE our neighbor and not take advantage of his financial difficulties. Jesus said, "Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would BORROW of thee turn not thou away" (Matt. 5:42).

Although a Christian's attitude should be one of giving, sharing, and helping in meeting the needs of the less fortunate, there are instances when it would be all right to accept interest. For example, if money is loaned to another individual purely as a BUSINESS deal so he can make money, then it is not wrong to collect interest, because both are sharing in the profits. It is also proper to accept interest from money placed in savings accounts, since the money is earning the increase.

If you would like additional information concerning principles of finance, please write for our booklet MANAGING YOUR PERSONAL FINANCES. There is no charge or obligation, of course.

Whenever we can be of additional service, we hope you will let us know.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT