The Bible consistently condemns oppression and robbery, emphasizing justice, fairness, and the protection of the vulnerable. These prohibitions are rooted in the character of God, who is just and righteous, and they reflect His desire for His people to live in a manner that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays a strong foundation against oppression and robbery. In the Law given to Moses, God commands His people to act justly and to avoid exploiting others. Leviticus 19:13 states, "You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him. The wages due a hired hand must not remain with you until morning" . This command underscores the importance of fair treatment and timely payment, reflecting God's concern for the welfare of workers.

The prophets frequently denounce oppression and robbery, calling Israel to repentance and justice. Isaiah 10:1-2 warns, "Woe to those who enact unjust statutes and issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of justice and withhold the rights of the oppressed of My people, to make widows their prey and rob the fatherless" . Here, the prophet highlights the societal impact of unjust laws and the exploitation of the vulnerable, urging a return to righteousness.

Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also addresses the themes of oppression and robbery. Proverbs 22:22-23 advises, "Do not rob a poor man because he is poor, and do not crush the afflicted at the gate, for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them" . This passage emphasizes God's advocacy for the poor and His promise to defend them against exploitation.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles continue to uphold the prohibition of oppression and robbery. Jesus, in His ministry, consistently sided with the marginalized and condemned the practices of those who exploited others. In Luke 11:39-42, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, saying, "Now you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness" . This critique highlights the importance of inner righteousness over outward appearances.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, also addresses issues of justice and fair treatment. In Ephesians 4:28, he instructs, "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need" . This exhortation not only prohibits theft but also encourages productive work and generosity.

Theological Implications

The prohibition of oppression and robbery is deeply connected to the biblical understanding of justice and righteousness. God’s people are called to reflect His character by acting justly and showing compassion to the oppressed. The biblical narrative consistently portrays God as a defender of the poor and the marginalized, and His followers are expected to emulate this divine concern in their own lives.

Practical Applications

Believers are encouraged to examine their own lives and societal structures to ensure they are not complicit in systems of oppression or exploitation. This includes advocating for fair treatment of workers, supporting policies that protect the vulnerable, and practicing generosity and integrity in personal and business dealings. The biblical call to justice is a call to action, urging Christians to be agents of change in a world marred by injustice.