Stealing, in simple terms, is viewed as a sin in the Bible. It’s a clear violation of the Ten Commandments, specifically “You shall not steal.” The Bible holds the principle of honesty and respect for others’ property in high regard. So, if you’ve ever wondered about God’s view on theft, it’s pretty clear: He’s not a fan. Jesus, throughout the New Testament, emphasized the importance of loving and respecting one another, which goes hand in hand with not taking what isn’t ours.
Still here? Dive deeper with us to truly understand the biblical perspective on stealing and its implications.
What Does the Bible Say About Stealing?
When it comes to theft, the Bible doesn’t mince words. From the very beginning, in the Old Testament, God set forth guidelines on how humans should behave towards one another. Stealing goes against the grain of these teachings. The act of theft doesn’t just harm the individual from whom something is taken, but it disrupts the harmony God desires for His people.
But why is stealing such a big deal in the eyes of God? It boils down to trust and respect. When one person steals from another, trust is broken. The action shows a lack of respect for another person’s property and rights. It’s not just about the material possessions; it’s about the values and morals that hold society together.
In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus reinforce this perspective. While Jesus emphasized forgiveness and redemption, he also highlighted the importance of living a righteous life. Stealing breaks the bond of trust, damages relationships, and opposes the values Jesus stood for.
God’s view on stealing is unwavering. It is not allowed, and it is viewed as a sin. However, the Bible also teaches about redemption and the possibility of forgiveness. Repentance and seeking God’s mercy is a path for those who have strayed.
Bible Verses About Stealing
- Exodus 20:15 – “You shall not steal.” This direct commandment makes it clear that stealing is not acceptable in God’s eyes.
- Leviticus 19:11 – “You shall not steal; you shall not deal falsely; you shall not lie to one another.” This verse links stealing with dishonesty, highlighting its negative impact on relationships.
- Ephesians 4:28 – “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.” Here, the New Testament advises against theft and promotes hard work and generosity instead.
- Proverbs 10:2 – “Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death.” This wise saying points out the futility of ill-gotten gains.
- Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” Jesus encourages us to seek spiritual rather than material riches.
- Luke 12:33-34 – “Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.” This verse emphasizes the impermanence of material possessions and the importance of spiritual wealth.
- Proverbs 6:30-31 – “People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his appetite when he is hungry, but if he is caught, he will pay sevenfold; he will give all the goods of his house.” Even in desperation, theft has consequences.
- 1 Corinthians 6:10 – “Nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” This verse lists thieves among those who are not in line with God’s will.
- Romans 13:9 – “For the commandments say, ‘You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet.'” Paul reiterates some of the Ten Commandments, reaffirming their significance in the New Testament.
- John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Jesus contrasts the destructive nature of thieves with His own mission to bring life and abundance to people.