Ever wondered what the Bible has to say about thieves and theft? Join us as we Dive into this enlightening exploration of scripture to uncover the wisdom it imparts on this crucial subject. Whether you’re seeking guidance or simply curious, you’ll find valuable insights within these verses.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Submitting To Authority
Bible Verses About Thieves
John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
This verse highlights the stark contrast between the purpose of a thief and the purpose of Jesus. While the thief seeks to steal, kill, and destroy, Jesus came to give abundant life to His followers. It reminds us that we must be cautious of anything or anyone that seeks to steal our joy, peace, or purpose. Instead, we should cling to Jesus, who offers true fulfillment and a life that surpasses our expectations.
Matthew 6:19-20
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
This verse cautions against placing too much emphasis on earthly possessions and wealth. It reminds us that earthly treasures are temporary and vulnerable to destruction, theft, or decay. Instead, our focus should be on cultivating treasures in heaven, such as love, kindness, and acts of service, which carry eternal value and cannot be stolen or destroyed.
Luke 12:33
“Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.”
This verse challenges us to examine our relationship with material possessions and the importance we place on them. It encourages us to be generous and sacrificial with our resources, especially towards those in need. By doing so, we invest in eternal treasures that cannot be stolen, ensuring our hearts are aligned with God’s kingdom, rather than being consumed by worldly pursuits.
James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
This verse reminds us that everything valuable and good comes from God. It emphasizes the trustworthiness of God as the ultimate giver of all good things. Recognizing this truth helps us resist the temptation to grasp for things that belong to others or acquire through dishonest means. Instead, we trust in God’s provision and seek to be content with what He has blessed us with.
Proverbs 6:30-31
“People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger when he is starving. Yet if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold, though it costs him all the wealth of his house.”
This verse acknowledges the desperation that can lead someone to theft out of necessity. It shows compassion towards those who steal to satisfy their basic needs. However, it also highlights the serious consequences that come with theft and the need for restitution. While understanding the root causes of theft is important, it is crucial to uphold justice and protect the well-being of others.
Proverbs 30:9
“Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.”
This verse recognizes that the extremes of wealth or poverty can potentially lead to stealing or a disregard for God. It highlights the importance of contentment and maintaining a balanced perspective on material possessions. By placing our trust in God’s provision and being grateful for what we have, we guard against the temptation to resort to theft or idolize wealth.
Exodus 20:15
“You shall not steal.”
This verse is one of the Ten Commandments given by God to the Israelites. It clearly states the prohibition against stealing. As Christians, we are called to uphold integrity and respect the property and belongings of others. This commandment serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and the value of personal responsibility in our actions and choices.
1 Corinthians 6:10
“nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse reminds us that engaging in theft is contrary to the values of God’s kingdom. It includes stealing among other sinful behaviors that are not compatible with inheriting the kingdom of God. It underscores the need for repentance and transformation in our lives, as we strive to align our actions with God’s will.
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.”
This verse offers guidance to those who have engaged in theft. It calls for a complete change in behavior, urging them to pursue honest work and use their hands for productive purposes. It also emphasizes the importance of generosity, highlighting the transformation that can occur when a former thief redirects their efforts towards contributing to society and helping those in need.
Leviticus 19:11
“Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”
This verse emphasizes the interconnectedness of stealing with lying and deception. It reveals the destructive nature of dishonesty and manipulation in relationships. As followers of Christ, we are called to walk in truth and integrity, not only refraining from theft but also avoiding any form of deceit or falsehood that can harm others.
Zephaniah 3:13
“The remnant of Israel will do no wrong; they will speak no lies, nor will deceit be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid.”
This verse envisions a future where God’s people live in honesty and truth, free from the fear of oppression. It portrays a community marked by righteousness and integrity, where stealing, lying, and deceit have no place. It challenges us to live with the awareness that our actions impact the world around us and encourages us to be agents of truth and trustworthiness.
Proverbs 10:2
“Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.”
This verse highlights the fleeting nature of stolen wealth or possessions. It contrasts material gain acquired through dishonest means with the eternal significance of righteousness. It reminds us that investing in righteousness and living a life pleasing to God holds far more value than any ill-gotten treasures, which ultimately lead to destruction and separation from God.
Proverbs 21:6
“A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.”
This verse exposes the emptiness and peril of acquiring wealth through deceit. It warns against the deceptive allure of dishonest gain, emphasizing that such fortune is temporary and holds no lasting value. It encourages us to prioritize honesty and integrity, recognizing that true wealth is found in living a life that aligns with God’s principles.
Psalm 50:18-20
“When you see a thief, you join with him; you throw in your lot with adulterers. You use your mouth for evil and harness your tongue to deceit. You sit and testify against your brother and slander your own mother’s son.”
This verse condemns those who not only engage in theft themselves but also support or align themselves with thieves and engage in other sinful activities. It reveals the seriousness of participating in or promoting dishonest behavior, highlighting the destructive consequences that result from such actions. It compels us to distance ourselves from wrongdoing and instead choose righteousness and truth.
Psalm 37:21
“The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.”
This verse draws a contrast between the behavior of the wicked and the righteous concerning their treatment of borrowed resources. It exposes the lack of integrity displayed by the wicked, who fail to repay what they borrowed. In contrast, the righteous exhibit generosity and integrity in their financial dealings, reflecting the character of God and His desire for His people to be honest and honorable.
Proverbs 22:23
“For the LORD will take up their case and will exact life for life.”
This verse reminds us that God is a God of justice who intervenes on behalf of those who have been wronged. It assures us that God will avenge the theft and injustice committed against His people. This verse brings comfort to those who have suffered the loss or harm caused by theft, knowing that God sees their pain and will bring about justice in His perfect timing.
Isaiah 61:8
“For I, the LORD, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing. In my faithfulness, I will reward my people and make an everlasting covenant with them.”
This verse reveals God’s heart for justice and His disdain towards theft and wrongdoing. It assures us that God stands against theft and will faithfully reward His people for their righteousness and integrity. It reminds us that cultivating a life marked by honesty and justice is an expression of our covenant relationship with God, who promises to bless and protect those who follow His ways.
1 Peter 4:15
“If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.”
This verse underscores the importance of living a life that is free from theft and any other form of criminal behavior. It reminds us that suffering or facing consequences for our actions should not be because we have chosen to engage in illegal activities. As Christians, we are called to walk in obedience to God’s laws and honor Him in all that we do.
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'”
This verse advises us to guard against the love of money and the temptation to resort to theft in the pursuit of greater wealth. It teaches us to find contentment in what God has provided, recognizing that finding fulfillment in material possessions is fleeting and leads to a never-ending pursuit of the next best thing. Instead, we find security in the unchanging presence of God, who promises to never leave or forsake us.
Psalm 62:10
“Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.”
This verse warns against placing our trust or hope in ill-gotten gains or stolen goods. It reminds us that true security and contentment come from trusting in God alone, rather than relying on dishonest means for financial gain. It encourages us to prioritize the condition of our hearts, focusing on cultivating a relationship with God rather than accumulating material wealth.
Psalm 119:61
“Though the wicked bind me with ropes, I will not forget your law.”
This verse expresses the resolve to remain faithful to God’s commands and standards, even in the face of pressure or persecution. It stands as a reminder that no circumstance should lead us to compromise our integrity or engage in theft. Our commitment to honoring God and His Word should remain unwavering, regardless of the challenges we may encounter.
Proverbs 12:12
“The wicked desire the stronghold of evildoers, but the root of the righteous endures.”
This verse highlights the contrast between the temporary success of thieves and the enduring stability of the righteous. It exposes the futility of relying on dishonest means to gain power or control. The root of the righteous, grounded in God’s truth and moral principles, withstands the test of time, while the wicked seeking ill-gotten gain will ultimately crumble under the weight of their wrongdoing.
What Does the Bible Say About Thieves?
The Bible clearly condemns stealing and thievery. In Exodus 20:15, one of the Ten Commandments states, “You shall not steal.” This commandment reflects God’s heart for honesty, integrity, and respect for others’ property. When we steal, we not only violate the rights of others but also disobey God’s commandment.
Throughout the Bible, there are many instances where stealing is condemned. Proverbs 6:30-31 reminds us that thieves must repay what they have stolen, and if caught, they may have to surrender all the substance of his house. Furthermore, the New Testament emphasizes the importance of honest living and working for what we need, rather than taking what belongs to others.
As Christians, we are called to follow the example of Christ and live in a way that honors God and respects others. Instead of taking what is not ours, we should be content with what we have, work hard, and be generous to those in need. In Ephesians 4:28, Paul encourages us to work diligently so that we can share with those in need and not be tempted to steal.
Ultimately, the Bible teaches us that stealing is not in line with God’s will for our lives. Instead, we are called to be people of integrity, honesty, and generosity, reflecting the character of Christ in all that we do.