Stealing is a sin that the Bible speaks against repeatedly. From the Ten Commandments to the teachings of Jesus, God makes it clear that taking what does not belong to us is wrong. However, the Bible does not only condemn stealing; it also teaches about honesty, integrity, and generosity.
Below, we will explore what the Bible says about stealing, why it is wrong, and how we can live a life that honors God through honesty.
What the Bible Says About Stealing
Stealing is mentioned throughout Scripture as a violation of God’s law. It damages trust, hurts others, and goes against God’s command for us to love one another.
One of the most direct commands against stealing comes from the Ten Commandments:
“You shall not steal.” – Exodus 20:15 (NIV)
This command is simple and clear. God calls His people to live honestly and not take from others. Stealing is not just about material goods; it can also involve cheating, deception, or taking advantage of someone unfairly.
Old Testament Verses About Stealing
The Old Testament contains many warnings about theft and dishonesty. Here are some key verses:
- Leviticus 19:11 – “Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”
- Proverbs 10:2 – “Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.”
- Proverbs 11:1 – “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with Him.”
- Proverbs 28:6 – “Better the poor whose walk is blameless than the rich whose ways are perverse.”
These verses show that wealth gained dishonestly does not last. God values integrity more than riches.
New Testament Teachings on Stealing
Jesus and the apostles also spoke against stealing. The New Testament emphasizes repentance and turning away from sinful behaviors, including theft.
- Ephesians 4:28 – “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.”
- Luke 19:8-9 – When Zacchaeus, a tax collector, met Jesus, he repented: “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”
- 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 – “Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
These verses remind us that stealing is serious in God’s eyes, but they also show that repentance and change are possible.
Why Stealing is a Sin
Stealing goes against God’s desire for people to live in honesty and love. Here’s why it is considered sinful:
- It Shows a Lack of Trust in God – When people steal, it often stems from fear or greed rather than trusting that God will provide.
- It Harms Others – Theft causes pain and loss for the victim, breaking relationships and trust.
- It Violates God’s Commandments – Stealing is against God’s law, which calls us to honesty and integrity.
How to Overcome the Temptation to Steal
If you struggle with dishonesty or theft, the Bible provides guidance for change:
- Seek God’s Help in Prayer – Ask Him for strength to resist temptation.
- Work Honestly – Find ways to earn through honest labor (Ephesians 4:28).
- Practice Generosity – Instead of taking from others, look for ways to give.
- Repent and Make Things Right – If you have stolen in the past, take steps to restore what was taken, just as Zacchaeus did in Luke 19.
Final Thoughts
The Bible is clear that stealing is wrong, but it also teaches us about forgiveness and transformation. Through God’s grace, anyone can turn away from dishonesty and live a life of integrity. Instead of taking from others, we are called to trust in God, work honestly, and show generosity.
By following biblical principles, we honor God and build a life of truth and righteousness.
