Exodus 22:1-5 If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep.… God made provision not only for the acquisition of property, but for its security. Hence this law, which respects — 1. Theft. 2. Housebreaking. I. THEFT (vers. 1-4). As the wealth of an Israelite consisted mainly in flocks and herds, the depredations of the thief were directed for the most part against them. II. HOUSEBREAKING (vers. 2, 3). Learn — 1. That God's providence extends to property as well as persons. Both are His gift. 2. That those who endeavour to thwart that providence play a losing game. 3. That the recognition of that providence is not inconsistent with, but demands the use of, means. It is an abuse and perversion of it to tamely submit to wrong when the legitimate prevention of wrong is within our reach. 4. That providence protects even the life of the wrong-doer, and no man must wantonly interfere with that protection. (J. W. Burn.) Parallel Verses KJV: If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep. |
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