Topical Encyclopedia The concept of theft in the Bible is not merely an act of taking what does not belong to oneself, but it is deeply rooted in the condition of the human heart. The Scriptures consistently portray theft as a violation of God's commandments and a manifestation of the sinful nature inherent in humanity.Biblical Definition and Commandments Theft is explicitly prohibited in the Ten Commandments, where God commands, "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15). This commandment underscores the importance of respecting the property and rights of others, reflecting God's desire for justice and righteousness among His people. The prohibition against theft is reiterated in Deuteronomy 5:19, emphasizing its foundational role in the moral law given to Israel. The Heart's Role in Theft The Bible teaches that theft is not merely an external act but originates from the heart. Jesus, in His teachings, highlights the heart as the source of sinful actions, including theft. In Mark 7:21-23 , 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. All these evils come from within, and these are what defile a man." This passage reveals that theft, like other sins, is a symptom of a deeper spiritual problem—a heart that is not aligned with God's will. Old Testament Examples and Consequences The Old Testament provides numerous examples of theft and its consequences. Achan's sin in Joshua 7 serves as a stark warning. Achan took forbidden items from Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat at Ai and his eventual punishment. This narrative illustrates the communal impact of theft and the seriousness with which God views such transgressions. In Proverbs, wisdom literature warns against the allure of ill-gotten gain. Proverbs 10:2 states, "Ill-gotten treasures profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death." This highlights the futility of theft and the ultimate value of living a righteous life. New Testament Teachings and Transformation The New Testament continues to address theft, urging believers to live transformed lives. 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 verse not only condemns theft but also encourages a positive transformation—turning from stealing to honest labor and generosity. The account of Zacchaeus in Luke 19 exemplifies this transformation. As a tax collector, Zacchaeus was known for his dishonest practices. However, upon encountering Jesus, he repented and vowed to repay fourfold what he had taken unjustly. This act of restitution demonstrates the power of Christ to change hearts and redirect lives towards righteousness. Theft in the Broader Context of Sin Theft is often linked with other sins, such as covetousness and greed. The Tenth Commandment, "You shall not covet" (Exodus 20:17), addresses the internal desires that can lead to theft. Covetousness, a longing for what belongs to others, is a precursor to stealing. The apostle Paul warns against such desires in 1 Timothy 6:10 , stating, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." Theft and the Kingdom of God Theft is incompatible with the values of the Kingdom of God. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 , Paul lists thieves among those who will not inherit the kingdom, emphasizing the need for repentance and transformation. The call to live as citizens of God's kingdom involves a rejection of theft and an embrace of integrity and generosity. In summary, theft in the Bible is a profound issue that extends beyond the physical act to the spiritual condition of the heart. It is a violation of God's law, a reflection of inner sinfulness, and a barrier to living in accordance with God's righteous standards. Through Christ, believers are called to a new way of life, marked by honesty, restitution, and love for others. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 15:19For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library To Pastors and Teachers The Wheat and the Tares The Rich Fool. Nineteenth Sunday after Trinity Duty to New and Old Man. On God's vineyard The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive. Rom. xiv. 1, 2 Chapter i. The Seventh Commandment Whether Bishops Sin Mortally if they Distribute not to the Poor ... 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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