Stealing in the Bible

Stealing is a fundamental moral issue addressed throughout the Bible. From the earliest laws given to Israel to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, Scripture consistently condemns theft and calls believers to a life of honesty, integrity, and trust in God’s provision. In this post, we will examine the biblical perspective on stealing, its consequences, and God’s call to righteousness, using references from the New American Standard Bible (NASB).

The Eighth Commandment: A Clear Prohibition

One of the most direct condemnations of stealing is found in the Ten Commandments:

“You shall not steal.” (Exodus 20:15, NASB)

This command, reiterated in Deuteronomy 5:19, is foundational to biblical ethics. It underscores the respect for others’ property and reflects God’s desire for justice and righteousness in human relationships. Theft, in all its forms, disrupts societal harmony and reflects a heart not aligned with God’s ways.

Stealing as a Sin Against God and Others

Scripture repeatedly presents stealing as an offense not only against individuals but against God Himself. Leviticus emphasizes how theft is an act of unfaithfulness to the Lord:

“Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, ‘When a person sins and acts unfaithfully against the Lord by deceiving his companion in a matter of a deposit or a security entrusted to him, or through robbery, or if he has extorted from his companion…’” (Leviticus 6:1-2, NASB)

Stealing often involves deception and betrayal, which breaks the trust that should exist within a community of believers. In addition, theft directly opposes God’s command to love one another (Matthew 22:39).

Consequences of Stealing

The Bible makes it clear that stealing leads to severe consequences, both spiritually and practically.

1. Divine Judgment: Proverbs warns that thieves will not escape divine justice.“Ill-gotten gains do not benefit, but righteousness rescues from death.” (Proverbs 10:2, NASB)“Bread obtained by a lie is sweet to a person, but afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.” (Proverbs 20:17, NASB)
2. Exclusion from God’s Kingdom: The New Testament makes it clear that thieves who do not repent will not inherit God’s kingdom.“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor thieves… will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10, NASB)
3. Restitution Required: The Old Testament mandated restitution for theft, showing God’s justice in requiring thieves to make amends.“If someone steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it, he shall pay five oxen for the ox and four sheep for the sheep.” (Exodus 22:1, NASB)

The emphasis on restitution highlights that repentance involves more than just stopping sinful behavior—it requires making things right with those who have been wronged.

Jesus’ Teachings on Stealing and Honesty

Jesus emphasized the importance of honesty and integrity. In the Sermon on the Mount, He pointed beyond mere outward obedience to the heart attitude behind theft.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19-20, NASB)

This teaching shows that greed and materialism often lead to stealing. Jesus calls believers to seek heavenly treasures rather than earthly wealth.

The Transformation of a Thief: Zacchaeus’ Story

A powerful example of repentance and restoration comes from the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19. Zacchaeus, a tax collector who had likely gained wealth through dishonest means, encountered Jesus and experienced a radical transformation.

“But Zacchaeus stopped and said to the Lord, ‘Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I am giving to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone, I am giving back four times as much.’” (Luke 19:8, NASB)

Zacchaeus’ willingness to repay those he had wronged reflected true repentance. Jesus affirmed his salvation, saying:

“Today salvation has come to this house.” (Luke 19:9, NASB)

This example teaches that true repentance involves restitution and a changed heart.

Paul’s Exhortation to Honest Work

The apostle Paul frequently addressed stealing and instructed believers to work honestly to provide for themselves and others.

“The one who steals must no longer steal; but rather he must labor, producing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with the one who has need.” (Ephesians 4:28, NASB)

This verse highlights three key principles:

1. Stop stealing – A clear command to turn away from dishonest gain.
2. Work hard – God values diligence and honest labor.
3. Be generous – Instead of taking from others, believers should give to those in need.

Trusting in God’s Provision

One root cause of stealing is a lack of trust in God’s provision. Jesus reassured His followers that God would meet their needs:

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” (Matthew 6:33, NASB)

Rather than resorting to theft, believers are called to trust that God will supply their needs through lawful means.

Practical Application for Believers

1. Examine Your Heart – Stealing is not always blatant. It can include unethical business practices, tax evasion, or withholding fair wages (James 5:4).
2. Practice Generosity – A giving heart combats the greed that often leads to stealing (2 Corinthians 9:7).
3. Make Restitution – If you have wronged someone, seek to make things right, following Zacchaeus’ example.
4. Teach Integrity – Parents should instill honesty in their children, teaching them biblical values (Proverbs 22:6).
5. Rely on God – Trust that God will provide, rather than resorting to dishonest means (Philippians 4:19).

Conclusion

The Bible consistently condemns stealing and calls believers to a life of honesty, integrity, and generosity. From the Old Testament laws to Jesus’ teachings and Paul’s exhortations, the message is clear: theft is a sin that harms individuals and dishonors God. However, through repentance, restitution, and a transformed heart, those who have stolen can find forgiveness and restoration in Christ. As followers of Jesus, we are called to trust in God’s provision, work diligently, and share with those in need, reflecting the character of our heavenly Father.