Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Scope:Theft, in biblical terms, refers to the unlawful taking of another's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. This concept extends beyond mere physical stealing to include various forms of deceit and fraud. The Bible addresses theft as a violation of God's commandments and a sin against both God and neighbor. Biblical Commandments and Teachings: The prohibition against theft is explicitly stated in the Ten Commandments. Exodus 20:15 declares, "You shall not steal." This commandment underscores the importance of respecting others' property and maintaining integrity in all dealings. Old Testament Context: The Old Testament provides numerous laws and examples concerning theft and fraud. Leviticus 19:11 instructs, "You must not steal. You must not lie or deceive one another." This verse links theft with deceit, highlighting the broader category of fraudulent behavior. The law also prescribes restitution for theft, as seen in Exodus 22:1 : "If a man steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters or sells it, he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep." The account of Achan in Joshua 7 illustrates the consequences of theft and deceit. Achan's taking of forbidden items led to Israel's defeat and his eventual punishment, demonstrating the seriousness of theft in the eyes of God. New Testament Teachings: The New Testament continues to emphasize the sinfulness of theft and fraud. In Ephesians 4:28 , Paul exhorts, "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 passage not only condemns theft but also encourages honest labor and generosity. Jesus Himself addresses the issue of theft in the context of the heart's condition. In Mark 7:21-22 , He states, "For from within the hearts of men come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, debauchery, envy, slander, arrogance, and foolishness." Here, theft is listed among other sins that originate from a corrupt heart, indicating the need for inner transformation. Fraud and Deceit: Fraud, as a form of theft, involves deception to gain unjust advantage. The Bible condemns dishonest scales and false measures, as seen in Proverbs 11:1 : "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This principle applies to all forms of business and personal interactions, urging believers to practice honesty and fairness. The account of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 serves as a New Testament example of fraud. Their deceit in withholding part of the proceeds from a sale while claiming to donate the entire amount resulted in divine judgment, underscoring the gravity of fraudulent behavior. Moral and Spiritual Implications: Theft and fraud are not merely legal issues but are deeply moral and spiritual concerns. They reflect a lack of trust in God's provision and a failure to love one's neighbor as oneself. The Bible calls believers to a higher standard of integrity, urging them to live honestly and to trust in God's justice and provision. Conclusion: The biblical perspective on theft and fraud is clear and uncompromising. These acts are violations of God's law and are detrimental to both individuals and communities. The Scriptures call for repentance, restitution, and a commitment to living in truth and integrity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Leviticus 19:13You shall not defraud your neighbor, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with you all night until the morning. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Danger of Riches The Commandments Exposition of the Moral Law. Summa Theologica Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Resources Why is "You shall not steal" in the Ten Commandments? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about vandalism? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about restitution? | 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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