How does Leviticus 6:2 relate to the Eighth Commandment, "You shall not steal"?

The Texts Side by Side

• Leviticus 6:2: “If someone sins and acts unfaithfully against the LORD by deceiving his neighbor regarding a deposit, a security, or something entrusted to him, or by stealing or extorting…”

• Exodus 20:15: “You shall not steal.”

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Shared Moral Foundation

• Both passages ground property rights in God’s character and authority.

• Each violation against a neighbor is labeled an offense “against the LORD,” showing that theft is first a sin against God, then against people.

• Leviticus 6 elaborates on the commandment, demonstrating that God’s law is consistent and comprehensive.

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Expanded Definition of Theft

Leviticus 6:2 widens the scope of the Eighth Commandment:

• Deception regarding “a deposit” or “something entrusted” (embezzlement).

• “Stealing” outright (larceny).

• “Extorting” (using force or threats).

• Swearing falsely about lost property (verse 3) adds perjury to theft.

The commandment forbids every shade of dishonest gain, from subtle fraud to blatant robbery.

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Heart Issues Exposed

• Theft reveals distrust in the Lord’s provision (Philippians 4:19).

• It shows contempt for a neighbor’s welfare and dignity (Romans 13:9–10).

• It springs from covetous desires the Tenth Commandment condemns (Exodus 20:17).

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Restitution and Repentance

• Leviticus 6:4–5 mandates full restitution plus an added fifth, proving genuine repentance involves tangible repair.

• Zacchaeus mirrors this principle, restoring fourfold (Luke 19:8–9).

• Ephesians 4:28 calls former thieves not only to stop stealing but to work and give.

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Foreshadowing the Gospel

• The guilt offering of Leviticus 6:6–7 points to Christ, “the Lamb of God” who makes atonement (John 1:29).

• Jesus satisfies divine justice for every theft while empowering transformed living (Titus 2:14).

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Everyday Life Applications

• Honor all entrusted resources—employer time, borrowed items, intellectual property.

• Practice transparent financial dealings; hidden fees, inflated invoices, and tax evasion fit Leviticus 6’s descriptions.

• Replace taking with giving: generosity, fair pay, and prompt repayment display the opposite spirit of theft (Proverbs 3:27–28).

• Cultivate contentment through gratitude and diligent work, breaking theft at its root (1 Timothy 6:6–8).