Scripture upholds principles of just and honest commerce, while prohibiting usury, exploitation and oppression of those in need. Faith for Just Lending is a group of faith organizations working together to combat predatory financial practices.
The National Association of Evangelicals is a key member of Faith for Just Lending. Other members include the Center for Public Justice, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, Ecumenical Poverty Initiative, Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., National Latino Evangelical Coalition and the PICO National Network.
Principles for Just Lending
- Individuals should manage their resources responsibly and conduct their affairs ethically, saving for emergencies, and being willing to provide support to others in need.
- Churches should teach and model responsible stewardship, offering help to neighbors in times of crisis.
- Lenders should extend loans at reasonable interest rates based on ability to repay within the original loan period, taking into account the borrower’s income and expenses.
- Government should prohibit usury and predatory or deceptive lending practices.