The main point of this verse seems to be that trust must be earned by faithful acquaintance, or else insured in some way when given to a stranger. We are told to avoid giving ourselves as surety for others, but here we are instructed to demand surety from borrowers whom we do not know. The reason is that in our fallen world, which is full of slackers (Proverbs 18:9), swindlers (Proverbs 20:10, Proverbs 20:14, Proverbs 20:17, Proverbs 20:24), and sinful imposters, we need to deal wisely and prudently with others. The innocent will not suffer by their providing such insurance when borrowing, for their faithful diligence will keep them from breaking their pledge. In the case of a man who proves a bad risk, the innocent lender is protected by the insurance. When we do not exercise godly cautiousness, we confirm others in their wicked irresponsibility, and we harm ourselves. But being cautious here will protect the innocent and encourage the irresponsible borrower to develop a life of faithful diligence and great productivity.
16 Take a man’s garment when he has put up security for a stranger, and hold it in pledge when he puts up security for foreigners.