Topical Bible: Covetousness in Deceiving Jacob in Wages

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Introduction

Covetousness, a strong desire for possessions or wealth, is a recurring theme in the Bible, often leading to deceit and moral compromise. The account of Jacob and Laban in the Book of Genesis provides a vivid illustration of covetousness manifesting in the deceitful manipulation of wages. This narrative highlights the destructive nature of greed and the challenges faced by those who strive to maintain integrity in the face of exploitation.

Biblical Context

The account of Jacob's dealings with Laban is found in Genesis 29-31. Jacob, having fled from his brother Esau, arrives in Paddan-aram and encounters Laban, his mother's brother. Jacob agrees to work for Laban for seven years in exchange for the hand of his daughter Rachel in marriage. However, Laban deceives Jacob by giving him Leah, Rachel's older sister, instead. This act of deception sets the stage for a complex relationship characterized by manipulation and covetousness.

Covetousness and Deception

Laban's covetousness is evident in his repeated attempts to exploit Jacob's labor for personal gain. After the initial deception, Jacob agrees to work an additional seven years for Rachel. Laban's desire to retain Jacob's services and benefit from his prosperity leads him to continually alter Jacob's wages. Genesis 31:7 states, "Yet your father has cheated me and changed my wages ten times. But God has not allowed him to harm me."

Laban's actions reflect a deep-seated greed, prioritizing material wealth over familial bonds and ethical conduct. His willingness to deceive Jacob underscores the corrupting influence of covetousness, which blinds individuals to the moral implications of their actions.

Jacob's Response

Despite Laban's deceit, Jacob remains steadfast in his work, trusting in God's provision and justice. Jacob's response to Laban's covetousness is marked by patience and reliance on divine intervention. In Genesis 31:42 , Jacob acknowledges God's role in his prosperity: "If the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the Fear of Isaac, had not been with me, surely now you would have sent me away empty-handed. But God has seen my affliction and the toil of my hands, and last night He rendered judgment."

Jacob's experience serves as a testament to the importance of faithfulness and integrity, even when faced with unjust treatment. His ultimate success and departure from Laban's household illustrate the biblical principle that God honors those who remain true to His ways.

Theological Implications

The narrative of Jacob and Laban offers profound insights into the nature of covetousness and its consequences. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing greed to dictate one's actions. The account also emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, reassuring believers that He is aware of their struggles and will ultimately vindicate those who trust in Him.

In the broader biblical context, covetousness is consistently condemned as a sin that leads to various forms of moral decay. The Apostle Paul warns against it in Colossians 3:5 , urging believers to "put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry."

Conclusion

The account of Jacob and Laban is a powerful reminder of the destructive nature of covetousness and the importance of maintaining integrity in the face of deceit. Through Jacob's perseverance and faith, the narrative underscores the biblical truth that God is faithful to those who honor Him, even amidst trials and injustices.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 31:7,15,41,42
And your father has deceived me, and changed my wages ten times; but God suffered him not to hurt me.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Treatise viii. On Works and Alms.
... transgressions, and to the house of Jacob their sins ... barren, and those, who by their
covetousness for money ... a prodigal and foolish vanity of deceiving pleasures ...
/.../cyprian/the treatises of cyprian/treatise viii on works and.htm

Moody's Stories
... His mother knew he was only deceiving himself, so she kept ... The folly of covetousness
is well shown in the ... the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, has commanded ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/moodys stories/moodys stories.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm