Are Christians allowed to get credit in the form of a loan?

Question:

During our times, in the world and in the church, it seems to be acceptable to get a loan in the form of credit from the bank, both for personal usage and the ministry. So, I want to know what the Word of God has to say on this subject. As Christians, are we allowed to take credit in the form of a loan? Thank you.

There is no place in the Bible that forbids Christians from taking money in the form of a loan from the bank or an individual. God called His people, the children of Israel to be completely obedient to His Word, giving this promise to them:

6 “For the LORD your God will bless you as He has promised you, and you will lend to many nations, but you will not borrow ; and you will rule over many nations, but they will not rule over you. (Deuteronomy 15)

It is a good idea to learn to live within your means, by the money that you earn from working and not be too quick to borrow because:

7 The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender’s slave.  (Proverbs 22)

Having learned that, it is also true that all of us will come to the point now and again to where we have to borrow money. Think ahead of time about how you will pay it back because:

21 The wicked borrows and does not pay back, But the righteous is gracious and gives.  (Psalm 37)

Therefore, if you have borrowed money then you need to do all that you can to pay off the debt as soon as possible or before the end of the allotted time. On the other hand, if something happens and you are not able to pay off the loan on time, then do not begin to run away and hide from your obligations. This is the way that thieves act and you do not want to be associated with them. If the end of the term approaches and you cannot pay off the loan then go to the bank or person and explain the situation. Ask for forgiveness and request an extension so that you can pay off the loan.

Translation by: Erik Brewer