The Significance of "Spoiling the Egyptians" in Early Christian Thought

The narrative of the Israelites "spoiling the Egyptians" before the Exodus has been a subject of theological reflection and interpretation throughout Christian history. Early Christian thinkers grappled with the implications of this event, seeing it not merely as historical fact, but as a type or prefigurement of God's dealings with the Church and the Gentiles. This interpretation offers insights into early Christian views on wealth, justice, and the relationship between the Church and the world.

Understanding the Context: Exodus and Divine Justice

The book of Exodus recounts how the Israelites, after generations of slavery in Egypt, were instructed by God to ask their Egyptian neighbors for "articles of silver and articles of gold, and clothing" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). This request, often translated as "borrowing," resulted in the Egyptians freely giving these items to the Israelites. This act is what is commonly referred to as "spoiling the Egyptians."

Early Christian writers like Irenaeus address potential criticisms of this event. He argues that it was not unjust, but rather a form of divinely ordained justice. The wealth taken from the Egyptians was, in a sense, a repayment for the years of unpaid labor and suffering endured by the Israelites (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). He refutes the idea that the Israelites were doing something wrong, suggesting that God, as the ultimate King, had the authority to impose such a "just tax" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt).

"Spoiling the Egyptians" as a Type for the Church

Irenaeus presents a compelling interpretation of the Exodus narrative as a "type and image of the exodus of the Church which should take place from among the Gentiles" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). Just as the Israelites were led out of Egypt, so too is the Church led out of the world into God's inheritance. The act of "spoiling the Egyptians" then becomes symbolic of the Church appropriating the resources of the world for God's purposes.

Redeeming Wealth for God's Kingdom

This appropriation is not seen as a selfish act, but as a form of "redeeming... our property from strange hands" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). Irenaeus clarifies that the world is ultimately God's possession, but that non-believers possess gifts and resources that can be used for righteous purposes. He uses the analogy of the Israelites taking from the Egyptians, who "knew not God," to illustrate how believers can take what was acquired "from unrighteousness when we were heathen" and apply it "to the Lord's advantage" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt).

He connects this idea to Jesus' teaching in Luke 16:9, "Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness, that they, when ye shall be put to flight, may receive you into eternal tabernacles" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). This verse suggests that wealth, even if acquired through unjust means, can be used to perform acts of charity and kindness that will ultimately benefit the giver in eternity. Irenaeus sees this as a way of erecting "in ourselves the tabernacle of God," as God dwells in those who act uprightly (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt).

Implications for Christian Conduct

This interpretation has several implications for Christian conduct. First, it encourages believers to be generous with their possessions, sharing with those in need. This is reflected in the teachings of Jesus, such as "He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). Second, it suggests that Christians can use their wealth and resources to advance God's kingdom, even if those resources were initially acquired in a non-Christian context.

Conclusion

The early Christian understanding of "spoiling the Egyptians" provides a nuanced perspective on wealth, justice, and the Church's relationship to the world. It encourages believers to see their possessions as resources that can be redeemed for God's purposes, and to use them to build up the Church and care for those in need. This interpretation offers a valuable lens for understanding how early Christians viewed their role in transforming the world for the glory of God.