Topical Encyclopedia The concept of theft as an abomination is deeply rooted in the moral and ethical teachings of the Bible. Theft, in its essence, is the unlawful taking of someone else's property, and it is consistently condemned throughout Scripture. The Bible presents theft not only as a violation of human law but as an affront to God's divine order.Old Testament Teachings The Old Testament lays a strong foundation against theft, beginning with the Ten Commandments. In Exodus 20:15 , the commandment is clear: "You shall not steal." This directive is part of the moral law given by God to the Israelites, emphasizing the sanctity of personal property and the importance of respecting others' possessions. Proverbs further underscores the moral repugnance of theft. Proverbs 6:30-31 states, "Men do not despise the thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger. Yet if caught, he must pay sevenfold; he must give up all the wealth of his house." This passage acknowledges the desperation that may drive one to steal but insists on restitution, highlighting the seriousness of the offense. The book of Leviticus also addresses theft, particularly in the context of deceit and fraud. Leviticus 19:11 commands, "You must not steal. You must not lie or deceive one another." Here, theft is linked with dishonesty, further illustrating its abominable nature in the eyes of God. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to affirm the prohibition against theft, expanding on its spiritual implications. In Ephesians 4:28 , the Apostle Paul 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 transformation towards honest labor and generosity. Jesus Himself addresses the issue of theft in the context of the heart's condition. In Mark 7:21-23 , He lists theft among the evils that come from within and defile a person: "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 teaching emphasizes that theft is not merely a physical act but a reflection of a corrupt heart. Theological Implications Theft is considered an abomination because it violates the principle of stewardship entrusted to humanity by God. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands humanity to "fill the earth and subdue it," granting them dominion over creation. This dominion implies a responsibility to respect and care for what belongs to others, recognizing that all possessions ultimately belong to God. Furthermore, theft disrupts the communal harmony and trust that God desires among His people. It is an act that undermines relationships and sows discord, contrary to the biblical call for love and unity. Theft is antithetical to the character of God, who is just, faithful, and generous. Moral and Ethical Considerations From a moral and ethical standpoint, theft is an abomination because it reflects a lack of contentment and trust in God's provision. Hebrews 13:5 advises, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: 'Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.'" This verse encourages believers to rely on God's faithfulness rather than resorting to theft out of greed or desperation. In summary, theft is consistently portrayed in the Bible as an abomination, a sin that violates God's commandments and disrupts the moral order He established. It is condemned in both the Old and New Testaments, with an emphasis on the need for repentance, restitution, and a transformation of the heart. Torrey's Topical Textbook Jeremiah 7:9,10Will you steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense to Baal, and walk after other gods whom you know not; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Almost Christian Letter Lv. To Amandus. Attributes of Love. The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive. Of Civil Government. Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount On the Clause, and Shall Come in Glory to Judge the Quick and the ... Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... Letter ccxi. (AD 423. ) part viii. 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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