The Bible addresses the issue of stealing in various passages, emphasizing its moral and ethical implications. Both the Old and New Testaments have clear teachings against the act of theft.
Here are some key verses:
- Exodus 20:15 (KJV) “Thou shalt not steal.”
- This commandment is part of the Ten Commandments, the foundational moral laws given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
- Leviticus 19:11 (KJV) “Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another.”
- This verse is part of a broader set of laws given to the Israelites, further reinforcing the command against stealing.
- Ephesians 4:28 (KJV) “Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.”
- In this New Testament passage, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to turn away from theft and instead engage in honest labor.
- Proverbs 10:2 (KJV) “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.”
- This wisdom literature in the Old Testament suggests that ill-gotten gains bring no real benefit.
- 1 Corinthians 6:10 (KJV) “Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”
- Here, Paul lists thieves among those whose behaviors are contrary to the values of the Kingdom of God.
- Proverbs 6:30-31 (KJV) “Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry; But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.”
- This passage acknowledges the desperation that might drive someone to steal but still holds them accountable for their actions.
These verses collectively underscore the biblical view that stealing is morally wrong. It is seen as an act that disrupts social harmony, violates trust, and goes against the principles of justice and righteousness. The Bible encourages honest living, hard work, and providing for others in need rather than taking what is not rightfully one’s own. Stealing is consistently portrayed as behavior that is incompatible with a righteous and godly life.