Inheritance, both physical and spiritual, is a theme in the Bible, and stealing or withholding an inheritance is seen as unjust. Scripture speaks about the importance of fairness, justice, and the proper distribution of family blessings. Let’s explore what the Bible says about inheritance and how to handle situations where it has been taken unlawfully.
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What Does The Bible Say About Stolen Inheritance
Proverbs 28:24
“Whoever robs their father or mother and says, ‘It’s not wrong,’ is partner to one who destroys.”
This verse draws attention to the severity of stealing one’s inheritance. It highlights the destructive nature of such actions and warns against justifying or dismissing them.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of honoring and respecting our parents and their possessions. Stealing one’s inheritance not only goes against these principles but also aligns with the actions of those who seek to bring destruction.
Exodus 20:15
“You shall not steal.”
This commandment speaks directly against the act of theft, including the theft of inheritance. It establishes that stealing is inherently wrong and goes against God’s laws.
As Christians, we are called to respect the property and possessions of others. Taking someone’s inheritance without their consent is a violation of this commandment and can have significant consequences.
Proverbs 10:2
“Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.”
This verse highlights the futility of acquiring wealth through dishonest means, such as stealing an inheritance. It reminds us that material possessions gained unlawfully hold no true value or lasting impact.
In contrast, righteousness and integrity bring deliverance from spiritual and eternal death. It emphasizes the importance of living a life that is honorable and upright, rather than resorting to theft.
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.’”
This verse serves as a reminder that our worth and fulfillment in life do not come from the accumulation of possessions, including stolen inheritances. It cautions against the destructive nature of greed and materialism.
Instead, Jesus calls us to prioritize spiritual and eternal matters over earthly possessions, teaching us that true life and contentment are found in a relationship with God, not in stolen wealth.
Proverbs 28:22
“A stingy person is eager to get rich and is unaware that poverty awaits them.”
This verse exposes the shortsightedness of those who resort to stealing inheritance in pursuit of wealth. It warns against the consequences that await those who prioritize greed over righteousness.
A person driven by greed may not realize that their actions will ultimately lead to poverty, not only in material possessions but also in their spiritual and moral well-being.
1 Corinthians 6:10
“Nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse makes it clear that those who engage in theft, including stolen inheritances, will not inherit the kingdom of God. It highlights the seriousness of such actions and their direct impact on our eternal destiny.
As Christians, we are called to pursue righteousness and reject any form of theft or dishonesty. Our focus should be on living a life that is pleasing to God and pursuing the eternal inheritance He has promised us.
Proverbs 21:6
“A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.”
This verse warns against the danger of acquiring wealth through deceitful means, including stealing an inheritance. It emphasizes the temporary nature of ill-gotten gains and the harm they can bring.
While stealing may seem like a quick way to secure material possessions, it only leads to temporary satisfaction and deadly consequences. True wealth is built upon integrity, honesty, and the blessings that come from God.
Jeremiah 17:11
“Like a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay, so 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 uses imagery to illustrate the foolishness of acquiring wealth through unjust means, such as stealing an inheritance. It portrays the temporary nature of ill-gotten riches and the empty outcome they bring.
Those who choose to obtain wealth dishonestly may experience temporary gain, but ultimately, their riches will vanish. This verse serves as a warning against the fleeting nature of stolen inheritance and the ultimate foolishness of such actions.
Proverbs 28:17
“A person tormented by the guilt of murder will be a fugitive till death; let no one help them.”
This verse compares the guilt carried by a murderer to the consequences faced by those who steal inheritance. It highlights the weight of guilt and the isolation and punishment that may follow such actions.
Stealing an inheritance can lead to a life of turmoil and constant fear of being discovered. It warns against engaging in activities that bring guilt and encourages us to seek forgiveness and restoration instead.
Proverbs 15:27
“The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live.”
This verse draws attention to the destructive impact of greed, emphasizing that it can bring ruin not only to the individual but also to their entire household. It contrasts this with the wisdom of rejecting dishonest gain.
Stealing an inheritance reflects a heart consumed by greed, and its consequences are not limited to the individual alone. This verse encourages us to live with integrity, avoiding the path of greed and its destructive outcomes.
James 5:4
“Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.”
This verse highlights the importance of fairness and justice in our dealings with others. It serves as a reminder that God hears the cries of those who have been wronged, including those who have had their inheritance stolen.
Stealing an inheritance not only harms the rightful heirs but also goes against God’s desire for justice and fairness. It urges us to be mindful of our actions and treat others with integrity and respect.
Job 20:15
“They swallow wealth, but will vomit it up; God will make them disgorge their ill-gotten gains.”
This verse assures us that ill-gotten wealth, including stolen inheritance, will not go unpunished. It underscores God’s justice in making those who have engaged in dishonest gain give up their ill-acquired possessions.
While some may think they can enjoy the spoils of their theft, God promises that they will ultimately face the consequences. It brings comfort to those who have had their inheritance stolen, knowing that God sees all and will bring about justice.
Proverbs 13:11
“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”
This verse contrasts the fate of dishonestly acquired wealth with the blessing of gradually accumulated wealth. It reminds us that stolen inheritance or any dishonest gain will eventually diminish, while honest and diligent effort leads to growth.
Choosing the path of theft may seem tempting, but it is ultimately unsustainable and unfulfilling. This verse encourages us to trust in God’s provision and work diligently to acquire wealth through lawful means.
Proverbs 20:17
“Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel.”
This verse portrays the temporary pleasure that can be derived from fraudulently acquired possessions, highlighting the bitter consequences that follow. It warns against the deceptive allure of stolen wealth.
While stolen inheritance may provide immediate satisfaction, it ultimately leads to regret, guilt, and hardship. It serves as a reminder that the taste of dishonest gain quickly turns sour and brings unforeseen burdens.
1 Timothy 6:9
“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.”
This verse cautions against chasing after riches and the many harmful desires associated with it. It emphasizes that such pursuits can lead to ruin and destruction, both spiritually and physically.
Stealing an inheritance reflects a desire to obtain wealth at any cost, falling into the trap of greed. This verse encourages us to place our focus on spiritual growth and the pursuit of righteousness rather than the pursuit of earthly riches.
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 addresses the issue of stealing head-on and offers a solution rooted in transformation and righteousness. It instructs those who have been involved in stealing to abandon their old ways and instead engage in productive work.
By working diligently and honestly, we not only provide for our own needs but also have the means to bless and support those in need. It underscores the importance of using our resources to bring about positive change in the lives of others.
Proverbs 22:16
“One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.”
This verse addresses the injustice of seeking wealth at the expense of the poor and vulnerable. It reveals that the pursuit of ill-gotten wealth, such as stolen inheritance, ultimately leads to poverty.
Robbing others of their rightful inheritance perpetuates inequality and brings about destructive consequences. This verse urges us to seek justice and equality, knowing that the path of oppression leads to ruin.
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 passage acknowledges that desperation can sometimes drive people to steal out of extreme need. However, it also states that theft carries consequences, requiring the thief to repay sevenfold and potentially losing everything they have.
While stolen inheritance may seem like a solution to immediate needs, it is important to consider the ethical and moral implications. God calls us to trust in Him for our provision and to seek lawful means of meeting our needs.
Proverbs 10:6
“Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.”
This verse contrasts the outcomes experienced by the righteous and the wicked. It affirms that blessings surround those who live in righteousness, while the wicked will ultimately face the consequences of their actions.
Stealing inheritance is a form of violence and wickedness, as it involves forcefully taking what is not rightfully ours. This verse reminds us of the importance of living in righteousness, knowing that blessings await those who honor God’s commandments.
Proverbs 28:20
“A faithful person will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.”
This verse contrasts the fates of a faithful person and one driven by a relentless pursuit of wealth. It affirms that those who are faithful and honor God’s principles will experience rich blessings, while those consumed by greed will face consequences.
Stealing an inheritance stems from the desire to get rich quickly without regard for righteousness. This verse encourages us to prioritize faithfulness to God over a quest for material possessions, knowing that true blessings come from Him.
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 passage teaches the importance of redirecting our focus away from earthly treasures and towards heavenly rewards. It warns against placing too much value on material possessions, which can be lost or stolen.
Stealing an inheritance reflects a misguided attachment to earthly wealth. Jesus encourages us to prioritize storing up treasures in heaven through our faithfulness and obedience, recognizing the eternal value found in spiritual investments.