Topical Encyclopedia The concept of theft is addressed extensively throughout the Bible, often highlighting the moral and spiritual implications of such actions. Within the biblical narrative, theft is not merely an act of taking what does not belong to oneself, but it is also seen as a reflection of a deeper moral decay and a departure from God's commandments. The association with those who commit theft is particularly condemned, as it reflects a willingness to partake in or condone unrighteous behavior.Biblical Condemnation of Theft The Eighth Commandment explicitly states, "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15). This commandment underscores the importance of respecting the property and rights of others, a principle that is foundational to a just and orderly society. Theft is seen as a violation of trust and an affront to God's order. Association with the Wicked The Bible warns against associating with those who commit theft, as such associations can lead to moral corruption and spiritual downfall. Proverbs 1:10-15 provides a vivid warning against joining with sinners who entice others into their schemes: "My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them. If they say, 'Come along, let us lie in wait for blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause; let us swallow them alive like Sheol, and whole like those descending into the Pit. We will find all manner of precious goods; we will fill our houses with plunder. Throw in your lot with us; let us all share one purse'—my son, do not walk the road with them or set foot upon their path." This passage highlights the seductive nature of sinful behavior and the communal aspect of theft, where individuals are tempted to join in collective wrongdoing for personal gain. The admonition is clear: to avoid the path of the wicked and not to partake in their schemes. Consequences of Associating with Thieves The Bible also speaks to the consequences of associating with those who commit theft. In Proverbs 29:24 , it is written, "A partner to a thief hates his own soul; he receives the curse, but discloses nothing." This verse suggests that those who align themselves with thieves not only endanger their own moral integrity but also bring upon themselves a curse, as they become complicit in the wrongdoing. The Call to Righteousness Throughout Scripture, believers are called to pursue righteousness and to separate themselves from the ways of the wicked. Psalm 1:1 states, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers." This call to righteousness is a recurring theme, urging individuals to seek the company of the godly and to avoid the influence of those who engage in sinful acts such as theft. Conclusion The Bible's teachings on theft and the association with those who commit it serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining moral integrity and aligning oneself with God's commandments. By avoiding the company of thieves and those who engage in wickedness, believers are encouraged to live lives that reflect the righteousness and holiness of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 1:23Your princes are rebellious, and companions of thieves: every one loves gifts, and follows after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither does the cause of the widow come to them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, Commonly Called the Didache Matt. vii. 1 The Commandments Period iv. The Age of the Consolidation of the Church: 200 to 324 ... Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Justification by an Imputed Righteousness; Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: 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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