Stealing is condemned in the Bible, but the beauty of Scripture is that it also offers a path to forgiveness. Whether you’ve stolen or been stolen from, the Bible speaks of justice, repentance, and reconciliation. Let’s explore the balance between holding people accountable for theft and offering forgiveness through Christ.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Investing Money
What Does The Bible Say About Stealing And Forgiveness
Exodus 20:15
“You shall not steal.”
This verse from the Ten Commandments clearly commands us not to steal. Stealing is taking something that does not belong to us without permission or rightful claim. It goes against the principles of honesty, integrity, and respect for other people’s property.
As Christians, we are called to live a life of righteousness and integrity. Stealing is in direct contradiction to these values and disrupts the trust and harmony within our relationships and society.
Proverbs 6:30-31
“People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his appetite when he is hungry, but if he is caught, he will pay sevenfold; he will give all the goods of his house.”
This passage acknowledges the motivation behind theft but also emphasizes the consequences that follow. While stealing out of desperation may evoke some sympathy, it does not justify the act. Theft still violates the rights and property of others and is punishable.
It is important for us to remember that God provides for His children and encourages us to trust in His provision rather than resorting to dishonest means.
Proverbs 28:24
“Whoever robs their father or mother and says, ‘It’s not wrong,’ is partner to one who destroys.”
This verse highlights the severity of stealing from one’s own parents. Stealing from those who have cared for and provided for us is a betrayal of trust and an act of ingratitude.
The act of stealing from our parents not only harms them but also reveals a lack of honor and respect within our character. As Christians, we are called to honor our parents and live with integrity and righteousness.
Matthew 6:19-21
“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. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
This passage speaks to the importance of prioritizing eternal treasures over earthly possessions. Earthly possessions are temporary and can be easily stolen or destroyed. Instead, we should focus on storing up treasures in heaven, which are imperishable and eternal.
When our hearts are set on heavenly treasures, the desire to steal diminishes because we understand the true value lies in a relationship with God and the eternal rewards He offers.
Luke 19:8-10
“But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘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.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.’”
This passage tells the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who had gained wealth through dishonest means. When he encountered Jesus, he repented of his actions, demonstrating true remorse and a desire for restitution.
Jesus acknowledges Zacchaeus’ transformation and the salvation that comes with genuine repentance. This story emphasizes the importance of not only ceasing to steal but also making amends and seeking forgiveness for the harm caused.
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 provides a practical guideline for those who have previously engaged in stealing. Instead of continuing in dishonest practices, they are called to embrace honest labor and contribute positively to society.
Furthermore, the transformation from stealing to productive work allows individuals to experience the joy of generosity and helping others in need. It teaches us the value of honest labor and the blessings that flow from a righteous lifestyle.
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 those who persist in stealing and other forms of wrongdoing will not inherit the kingdom of God. It is a stern warning against continuing in a pattern of sinful behavior that goes against God’s commandments.
As Christians, we are called to live a life that is in alignment with God’s principles. We must strive to repent of our sins, including stealing, and seek forgiveness and transformation through Jesus Christ.
Jeremiah 17:11
“Like a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay are those who gain riches by unjust means. When their lives are half gone, their riches will desert them, and in the end they will prove to be fools.”
This verse describes those who acquire wealth through unjust and dishonest means. Although they may enjoy temporary success, their ill-gotten gains will eventually disappear, leaving them empty-handed.
Choosing to steal may seem like a shortcut to wealth, but it is ultimately a self-destructive path. It not only harms others but also leads to a life of foolishness and emptiness. God calls us to choose righteousness and integrity in all our endeavors.
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 reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are called to live in a way that is different from the world. Stealing is listed alongside other criminal acts that should not be a part of a Christian’s life.
If we face difficulties or persecution, it should be for our faith, not because of our involvement in illegal or unethical activities. Stealing contradicts the principles of love, honesty, and respect that Christ calls us to live by.
1 Timothy 6:10
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
This verse cautions against the love of money, which can lead to various forms of evil and corrupt behavior. The desire for wealth and material possessions can tempt individuals into engaging in theft and other wrongful actions.
When our hearts are consumed by the pursuit of money, we risk losing sight of our faith and the values that should guide our lives. It is important to prioritize our relationship with God and seek contentment in Him rather than material wealth.
James 4:17
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
This verse highlights that sin is not only defined by the wrong actions we commit but also by the good actions we fail to do. If we know stealing is wrong and yet continue to steal or withhold what is rightfully due to others, it is a sinful act.
It is not enough for us to simply avoid stealing; we must actively pursue righteousness and fulfill our obligations to others. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will and demonstrate our love for Him and our neighbors.
Psalm 119:36
“Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.”
David, the Psalmist, recognizes the tendency of the human heart to be drawn towards selfish gain. He prays for God to redirect his heart towards God’s statutes and away from the allure of material possessions obtained through theft or dishonesty.
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God’s guidance and surrendering our desires for personal gain. It is through aligning our hearts with God’s will that we can resist the temptation to steal and pursue a life of righteousness.
Proverbs 20:17
“Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel.”
This proverb highlights the temporary satisfaction that comes from acquiring ill-gotten gain. Although the initial act of stealing may seem appealing, the long-term consequences are bitter and leave one empty.
Stealing may provide a fleeting sense of pleasure or advantage, but it ultimately brings harm and leads to ruin. We should strive to seek honest means of provision and trust in God’s faithfulness to meet our needs.
Proverbs 21:6
“A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.”
This verse emphasizes that wealth obtained through deceitful means is not only short-lived but also entangles and traps the one who acquires it. Deception and theft may yield temporary gains, but they lead to spiritual, emotional, and relational destruction.
As Christians, we are called to live with integrity and honesty, understanding that material wealth is not the true measure of success. We should value our character and relationship with God above worldly possessions.
Proverbs 13:11
“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”
This proverb highlights the futility of pursuing wealth through dishonest means. Ill-gotten money is easily lost or squandered, whereas money acquired honestly and through perseverance has the potential to grow and bring blessings.
By choosing to be patient, diligent, and honest in our endeavors, we can experience the fulfillment and security that come from God’s provision and blessings. It is better to acquire wealth gradually and righteously than to engage in theft and face the consequences of our actions.
Zechariah 5:4
“I will send it out,” declares the LORD Almighty, “and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of anyone who swears falsely by my name. It will remain in that house and destroy it completely, both its timbers and its stones.”
This prophecy reveals the consequences that await those who engage in theft and deceit. God declares that judgment will come upon thieves and those who dishonor Him by perjury.
The destruction described in this verse serves as a warning against the consequences of participating in dishonest practices. God’s justice will prevail, and it is in our best interest to honor His commandments and live upright lives.
Matthew 15:19
“For out of the heart come evil thoughts… theft.”
Jesus teaches that theft and other sins originate from a corrupt heart. It is not merely the external action of stealing that is sinful but the internal disposition that drives someone to theft.
This verse calls us to examine the condition of our hearts, recognizing the need for spiritual transformation. Only through the grace of God can our hearts be renewed, leading us to reject theft and embrace a life of righteousness and love.
Proverbs 28:13
“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.”
This verse reminds us of the power of confession and repentance. If we have engaged in stealing or any other form of wrongdoing, hiding or concealing our sins will not bring us true prosperity or peace.
Instead, we are encouraged to confess our sins to God and seek His forgiveness. Through genuine repentance and the renunciation of our sinful ways, we can experience the mercy and restoration that comes from our loving Heavenly Father.
Luke 12:15
“Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'”
Jesus cautions against the dangers of greed, which can lead to theft and other forms of dishonesty. Instead of placing our focus on accumulating material possessions and wealth, we are called to seek a higher purpose in life.
Our worth and fulfillment do not come from what we possess but from our relationship with God. By keeping our hearts free from greed, we can resist the temptation to steal and find contentment in God’s provision.
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 cautions against placing our trust and hope in ill-gotten gains. No matter how much wealth we amass through theft, it is not a secure or lasting source of fulfillment.
As Christians, we are called to trust in God alone and find our true worth in Him. We should not let the pursuit of stolen wealth captivate our hearts or lead us astray from the path of righteousness.
Matthew 5:42
“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
Jesus encourages a spirit of generosity and selflessness. Instead of resorting to theft to satisfy our own desires, we are called to share and help those in need.
This verse challenges us to examine our reactions when someone asks us for assistance. Rather than holding onto what we have out of fear or selfishness, we should be willing to give and lend, trusting in God’s provision and His ability to meet our needs.