The idea of obligation connects 13:1–7 and 13:8–10. Christians should “pay everyone what you owe him” (13:7). At the same time, Christians always owe love to their neighbors.
Be indebted to no one: Debt is not wrong, but Christians should avoid it. If a Christian does incur debt, it should be repaid promptly. This allows the believer to remain free to serve others in love (see Proverbs 22:7).
to one another in love: Christians are called to love all people they encounter (Romans 12:14–21; Luke 10:25–37). However, this phrase especially emphasizes the love that each Christian owes to other Christians.
has fulfilled the law: This teaching closely follows the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 22:34–40.