Topical Encyclopedia Theft, defined as the unlawful taking of another's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it, is explicitly condemned in the Bible. The Eighth Commandment, "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15), establishes the divine prohibition against theft, underscoring its moral and spiritual implications. Throughout Scripture, theft is portrayed not only as a sin against one's neighbor but also as an offense against God, bringing a curse upon those who engage in it.Biblical Instances and Warnings The account of Achan in the Book of Joshua serves as a poignant example of the curse that theft can bring. Achan's act of stealing devoted items during the conquest of Jericho led to Israel's defeat at Ai and brought severe consequences upon himself and his family. Joshua 7:11-12 records God's words: "Israel has sinned; they have transgressed My covenant that I commanded them. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, lied, and put them with their own possessions. This is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies." Achan's theft resulted in his execution and the destruction of his household, illustrating the severe repercussions of stealing. In the prophetic literature, theft is frequently associated with societal decay and divine judgment. Zechariah 5:3-4 describes a vision of a flying scroll, symbolizing a curse that goes out over the whole land: "This is the curse that is going out over the face of all the earth, for according to what is written on one side, every thief will be banished, and according to what is written on the other, everyone who swears falsely will be banished. I will send it out, declares the LORD of Hosts, and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of him who swears falsely by My name. It will remain inside his house and consume it, with its timber and stones." This passage highlights the pervasive and destructive nature of theft, as well as God's active role in bringing judgment upon those who commit it. Moral and Spiritual Implications Theft is not merely a violation of human law but a transgression against God's order. It reflects a lack of trust in God's provision and a disregard for the well-being of others. Proverbs 29:24 states, "A partner to a thief hates his own soul; he receives the curse, but discloses nothing." This proverb emphasizes the self-destructive nature of theft, as those who engage in it ultimately harm themselves spiritually and morally. The New Testament continues to affirm the prohibition against theft, urging believers to live lives of integrity and generosity. Ephesians 4:28 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 condemns theft but also encourages a transformation of character, promoting honest labor and a spirit of giving. Consequences and Redemption While theft brings a curse, the Bible also offers a path to redemption and restoration. Repentance and restitution are key components of this process. In the account of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who admitted to defrauding others, Jesus declares, "Today salvation has come to this house" (Luke 19:9) after Zacchaeus promises to repay fourfold what he has taken. This narrative illustrates the possibility of forgiveness and renewal for those who turn away from theft and seek to make amends. In summary, theft is a serious offense in the biblical worldview, bringing a curse upon those who commit it. It disrupts the social and spiritual fabric of the community and incurs divine judgment. However, through repentance and restitution, individuals can find redemption and restore their relationship with God and others. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hosea 4:2,3By swearing, and lying, and killing, and stealing, and committing adultery, they break out, and blood touches blood. Torrey's Topical Textbook Zechariah 5:3,4 Malachi 3:5 Library A Call to the Unconverted Philosophy Vs. Christianity On the Words of the Gospel, "When Jesus had Finished These Sayings ... 1 Cor. Iii. 15-Dec Little Sins Bardesan. Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Regeneration by Faith. Of Repentance. The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, The First Epistle of St. Peter Resources Why is "You shall not covet" in the Ten Commandments? | GotQuestions.orgDoes God punish us when we sin? | GotQuestions.org How can I learn to distinguish right from wrong? | GotQuestions.org Theft: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Theft and Thieves by Rachel, of the Household Gods (Teraphim) Theft and Thieves: General Scriptures Concerning Theft and Thieves: The Spies of Laish Theft: All Earthly Treasure Exposed To Theft: Brings a Curse on Those Who Commit It Theft: Brings the Wrath of God Upon Those Who Commit It Theft: from the Poor Specially Forbidden Theft: Heavenly Treasure Secure From Theft: Illustrates the Guilt of False Teachers Theft: Includes Fraud Concerning Wages Theft: Includes Fraud in General Theft: Proceeds from the Heart Theft: Shame Follows the Detection of Theft: The Wicked: Addicted To Theft: The Wicked: Associate With Those Who Commit Theft: The Wicked: Commit, Under Shelter of the Night Theft: The Wicked: Consent to Show Who Commit Theft: The Wicked: Destroy Themselves By Theft: The Wicked: Lie in Wait to Commit Theft: The Wicked: May, for a Season, Prosper In Theft: The Wicked: Plead Excuses For Theft: The Wicked: Repent not of Theft: The Wicked: Store up the Fruits of Theft: They Who Connive At: Hate Their own Souls Theft: They Who Connive At: Shall be Reproved of God Related Terms Commandments (181 Occurrences) Blood-guiltiness (4 Occurrences) |
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