Topical Encyclopedia Theft, in its broadest sense, is the unlawful taking of another's property. Within the biblical context, theft is unequivocally condemned as a violation of God's commandments. The Eighth Commandment explicitly states, "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15). However, the Scriptures place a particular emphasis on the prohibition of stealing from the poor, highlighting the moral gravity of exploiting those who are already vulnerable and disadvantaged.Biblical Prohibitions and Principles The Bible consistently underscores the protection of the poor and the needy, emphasizing justice and compassion. In Leviticus 19:13, the Lord commands, "You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him. You must not withhold until morning the wages due a hired hand" . This directive not only forbids theft but also stresses the importance of fair treatment and timely payment, particularly to those who rely on daily wages for their sustenance. The book of Proverbs further reinforces this principle, warning against the oppression of the poor: "Do not rob a poor man because he is poor, and do not crush the afflicted at the gate" (Proverbs 22:22). This verse highlights the moral reprehensibility of exploiting the poor simply because of their vulnerable status, and it serves as a reminder of the divine justice that advocates for the oppressed. Prophetic Condemnations The prophets of Israel frequently denounced the exploitation and theft from the poor, viewing such acts as a grave injustice that provoked God's wrath. In Isaiah 10:1-2, the prophet declares, "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" . This passage illustrates the broader societal implications of theft from the poor, linking it to systemic injustice and corruption. Similarly, the prophet Amos condemns those who "trample the head of the poor into the dust of the earth and deny justice to the oppressed" (Amos 2:7). Amos's message is a call to repentance and a return to righteousness, emphasizing that theft from the poor is not merely a personal sin but a societal ill that demands rectification. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Christ Himself addressing the issue of wealth and the treatment of the poor. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31), Jesus illustrates the consequences of neglecting and exploiting the poor. The rich man's indifference to Lazarus's plight serves as a cautionary tale about the eternal ramifications of ignoring the needs of the impoverished. The apostle James also speaks to this issue, admonishing believers to act justly and with compassion: "Listen, my beloved brothers: Has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him? But you have dishonored the poor" (James 2:5-6). James's words remind Christians of the inherent dignity and worth of the poor, urging them to uphold justice and mercy. Conclusion The biblical mandate against theft, particularly from the poor, is rooted in the broader call to love one's neighbor and to act justly. The Scriptures consistently advocate for the protection and fair treatment of the vulnerable, reflecting God's heart for justice and righteousness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 22:2The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Whether the Judicial Precepts were Suitably Framed as to the ... Homilies on Galatians and Ephesians. Letter ccxi. (AD 423. ) Letter ii (AD 1126) to the Monk Adam The Trial of Saul. Of Civil Government. Twenty-Seven Articles Respecting the Reformation of the Christian ... Chapter xxxi The French Reformation. The French Reformation 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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