How does this verse connect with the commandment "You shall not steal"? Setting the Scene: A Command for Every Generation • Exodus 20:15 states it plainly: “You shall not steal.” • Far from being an ancient social rule, this command reflects God’s unchanging character—His justice, His concern for neighbor, and His rightful ownership over everything (Psalm 24:1). The Heart Behind ‘You Shall Not Steal’ • Respect for God’s ownership: All resources ultimately belong to Him; taking what He entrusted to another is an offense against Him first (Malachi 3:8). • Love for neighbor: Stealing wounds relationships and sows distrust, contradicting the call to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:11,18). • Integrity of worship: Honest dealings are part of true devotion. “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD” (Proverbs 11:1). Ephesians 4:28 — A New Testament Echo “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with the needy.” What this verse adds: • Stops the wrong: “steal no longer.” Repentance begins with a decisive break. • Starts the right: “must work.” The remedy for theft is productive, honest labor. • Shifts the motive: “so that he may have something to share.” The former taker becomes a giver, completing a full heart-level turnaround. Layers of Connection 1. Moral continuity – The Decalogue’s prohibition finds direct reinforcement; Paul doesn’t soften the standard but deepens it. 2. Transformation, not mere avoidance – Scripture moves from “don’t take” to “earn and give,” showing God’s desire for proactive generosity (Acts 20:35). 3. Witness to the world – Honest work and sharing “behave properly toward outsiders” (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12), displaying the gospel’s power. Practical Takeaways for Daily Life • Work with purpose – View your job, studies, and chores as sacred stewardship, not drudgery. • Cultivate generosity – Plan a portion of income or time to bless someone in need; generosity kills the root of theft. • Guard the small things – “Borrowing” office supplies, pirating media, manipulating expense reports—all fall under the same command. • Make restitution when possible – Like Zacchaeus (Luke 19:8), restoring what was taken honors both God and neighbor. • Trust God’s provision – Theft often springs from fear or greed; faith rests in the One who “richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17). |
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