Stealing is considered a sin in Christianity, as it violates the principle of respecting others’ property and undermines trust within a community. The Bible provides clear guidance on this matter, emphasizing the importance of integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness. Below are 32 Bible verses from the Amplified Translation, along with commentary, to help understand the biblical perspective on stealing.
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Bible Verses About Stealing
Exodus 20:15
“You shall not steal [secretly, openly, fraudulently, or through carelessness].”
Commentary: This verse, one of the Ten Commandments, explicitly prohibits stealing in any form. It underscores the importance of respecting others’ property and upholding justice and fairness. By forbidding theft, the commandment promotes a society built on trust and mutual respect.
Leviticus 19:11
“You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another.”
Commentary: This verse expands on the prohibition against stealing by including false dealings and lying. It highlights the broader moral obligation to act honestly and transparently in all interactions. Deception, whether through theft or dishonesty, breaks the trust necessary for a healthy community.
Proverbs 10:2
“Treasures of wickedness and ill-gotten gains do not profit, But righteousness and moral integrity in daily life rescues from death.”
Commentary: This verse contrasts the fleeting nature of wealth obtained through dishonest means with the enduring value of righteousness. It warns against the lure of ill-gotten gains, suggesting that moral integrity provides true security and leads to a fulfilling life.
Proverbs 20:17
“Food gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel [just as sin may be sweet at first, but later its consequences bring despair].”
Commentary: The proverb uses vivid imagery to illustrate the consequences of deceit. While initially pleasurable, dishonest gains ultimately lead to regret and suffering. It serves as a caution against the temporary satisfaction of sinful actions, which can result in long-term negative outcomes.
Isaiah 61:8
“For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery with a burnt offering. And I will faithfully reward them and make an everlasting covenant with them.”
Commentary: This verse reflects God’s character as just and righteous. It emphasizes that God despises robbery and values justice. The promise of a reward and everlasting covenant for those who uphold justice highlights the importance of ethical behavior and the consequences of injustice.
Jeremiah 7:9-10
“Will you steal, murder, commit adultery, swear [oaths] falsely, offer sacrifices to Baal, and follow after other gods that you have not known, and then come and stand before Me in this house, which is called by My Name, and say, ‘We are protected and set free [by this act of religious ritual]!’—only to go on with this wickedness and these disgusting and loathsome things?”
Commentary: This passage critiques the hypocrisy of engaging in sinful acts, including theft, while claiming religious protection. It warns against using religious rituals as a cover for immoral behavior. True worship and devotion to God require consistent ethical conduct.
Hosea 4:1-2
“Hear the word of the Lord, you children of Israel, for the Lord has a legal case with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no faithfulness, no steadfast love, no [secure] knowledge of God in the land. There is [false] swearing of oaths, deception, broken faith, murder, stealing, and adultery; They employ violence, so that one [act of] bloodshed follows closely on another.”
Commentary: Hosea condemns the pervasive immorality in Israel, including theft. The lack of faithfulness and love has led to a breakdown in societal order. This verse serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the consequences of living in sin.
Matthew 6:19-21
“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, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Commentary: Jesus teaches about the impermanence of earthly possessions and the importance of focusing on spiritual wealth. Material wealth is vulnerable to theft and decay, but treasures in heaven are eternal. This passage encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual growth and relationship with God.
Luke 3:12-14
“Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, ‘Teacher, what are we to do?’ And he told them, ‘Collect no more than the fixed amount you have been ordered to [collect].’ Some soldiers asked him, ‘And what about us, what are we to do?’ And he replied to them, ‘Do not extort money from anyone or harass or blackmail anyone, and be satisfied with your wages.’
Commentary: John the Baptist instructs tax collectors and soldiers to act justly and avoid exploiting others. His message emphasizes fairness and honesty, condemning practices like extortion and blackmail, which are forms of theft. This guidance is a call to integrity in professional and personal conduct.
Luke 16:10-12
“He who is faithful in a very little thing is also faithful in much; and he who is dishonest in a very little thing is also dishonest in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the use of earthly wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you? And if you have not been faithful in the use of that [earthly wealth] which belongs to another [whether God or man], who will give you that which is your own?”
Commentary: Jesus emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in handling material wealth. He warns that dishonesty in small matters can lead to greater unfaithfulness. This principle applies to all areas of life, highlighting the need for integrity and responsibility, especially in managing resources.
Romans 13:9
“The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,’ and any other commandment are summed up in this statement: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
Commentary: Paul summarizes the moral law by emphasizing love for one’s neighbor. The prohibition against stealing is part of a broader ethic of love and respect for others. By loving others as ourselves, we fulfill the law and avoid harming others through acts like theft.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10
“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit or have any share in the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor [perversely] effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit or have any share in the kingdom of God.”
Commentary: Paul lists various sinful behaviors, including theft, that are incompatible with inheriting God’s kingdom. This passage serves as a warning against engaging in such actions and highlights the importance of living a righteous and holy life. It calls for repentance and transformation through faith in Christ.
Ephesians 4:28
“The thief who has become a believer must no longer steal, but instead he must work hard, making an honest living, producing that which is good with his own hands, so that he will have something to share with those in need.”
Commentary: Paul advises former thieves to abandon their old ways and engage in honest work. The purpose of earning a living is not only to support oneself but also to be able to help those in need. This verse emphasizes the transformative power of faith and the call to live a life of integrity and generosity.
Colossians 3:25
“For he who does wrong will be punished for his wrongdoing, and with God there is no partiality [no matter a person’s position, whether he is a slave or a master].”
Commentary: This verse affirms that God is impartial and just, holding everyone accountable for their actions. It serves as a reminder that wrongdoing, including theft, will be judged and punished by God. The verse encourages ethical behavior and reassures that justice will be served.
1 Peter 4:15
“Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or any sort of criminal, or as a troublesome meddler [interfering in the affairs of others];”
Commentary: Peter warns believers to avoid actions that could bring suffering or shame, including theft. This instruction encourages Christians to live blamelessly and uphold their reputation as followers of Christ. The verse highlights the importance of maintaining good conduct and avoiding wrongdoing.
John 10:10
“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows].”
Commentary: Jesus contrasts His mission with that of a thief. While thieves bring harm and destruction, Jesus offers abundant life. This verse underscores the destructive nature of stealing and the life-giving nature of Christ’s ministry. It calls believers to embrace the fullness of life found in Jesus.
James 5:4
“Look! The wages that you have fraudulently withheld from the laborers who have mowed your fields are crying out against you [for vengeance]; and the cries of the harvesters have come to the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth [the Lord of Hosts].”
Commentary: James condemns the unjust practice of withholding wages, equating it with theft. This verse highlights the importance of fair treatment of workers and the ethical obligation to pay what is owed. It serves as a warning that God hears the cries of the oppressed and will bring justice.
Zechariah 5:3-4
“Then he said to me, ‘This is the curse that is going out over the face of the whole land; for everyone who steals will be cut off [according to the writing] on one side, and everyone who swears [oaths] falsely will be cut off [according to the writing] on the other side. I will send the curse out,’ declares the Lord of hosts, ‘and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of the one who swears falsely by My name; and it will spend the night in that house and consume it, both its timber and its stones.'”
Commentary: This prophetic vision in Zechariah portrays a curse upon those who steal and swear falsely. The curse is depicted as a force that will enter and destroy the houses of the guilty. The passage serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the divine judgment that follows.
Malachi 3:8-10
“Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings [you have withheld]. You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing Me, the whole nation [of you]! Bring all the tithes (the tenth) into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you [so great] a blessing until there is no more room to receive it.'”
Commentary: Malachi addresses the issue of withholding tithes and offerings, equating it with robbing God. The passage highlights the spiritual and material consequences of not giving as commanded. It also offers a promise of abundant blessings for those who are faithful in their giving, emphasizing the importance of generosity and obedience.
Matthew 19:18
“He said to Him, ‘Which commandments?’ And Jesus answered, ‘You shall not commit murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness;'”
Commentary: In this conversation with a young man, Jesus reiterates the commandment against stealing, along with other key commandments. The inclusion of theft among these fundamental ethical principles underscores its seriousness. Jesus’ teachings affirm the importance of living a life of integrity and respect for others.
Luke 19:8
“So Zaccheus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘See, Lord, I am now giving half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone out of anything, I will give back four times as much.’
Commentary: Zacchaeus, a tax collector, demonstrates genuine repentance by pledging to make restitution for any wrongs he has committed, including possible theft or extortion. His actions reflect the biblical principle of restitution, showing that true repentance involves not only turning away from sin but also making amends. This story highlights the transformative power of encountering Christ.
Romans 2:21
“You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal?”
Commentary: Paul challenges the hypocrisy of those who teach against stealing but do not practice what they preach. This verse calls for self-examination and integrity, emphasizing that true teaching must be accompanied by consistent actions. It serves as a reminder to live authentically and uphold the values we profess.
Titus 2:9-10
“Urge bond-servants to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be pleasing and not talk back, not stealing, but [proving themselves] trustworthy, so that in every respect they will adorn and do credit to the teaching of God our Savior.”
Commentary: Paul instructs slaves to be obedient and trustworthy, explicitly mentioning not stealing. The broader message applies to all believers, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. By living in a manner that reflects the teachings of Christ, believers can positively influence others and honor God.
1 Thessalonians 4:6
“and that in this matter of sexual misconduct no man shall transgress and defraud his brother because the Lord is the avenger in all these things, just as we have told you before and solemnly warned you.”
Commentary: While this verse primarily addresses sexual misconduct, the principle of not defrauding others applies broadly, including financial and material matters. It highlights the seriousness of deceit and fraud and warns that God is the avenger of those wronged. The verse underscores the importance of fairness and integrity in all relationships.
Hebrews 13:5
“Let your character [your moral essence, your inner nature] be free from the love of money [shun greed—be financially ethical], being content with what you have; for He has said, ‘I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support], nor will I in any degree leave you helpless, nor will I forsake or let you down or relax My hold on you [assuredly not]!'”
Commentary: This verse warns against the love of money, which can lead to unethical behavior such as stealing. It encourages contentment and trust in God’s provision. By focusing on God’s promises and being content, believers can avoid the temptation to seek dishonest gain and live in peace and integrity.
1 John 3:17
“But whoever has the world’s goods (adequate resources) and sees his brother in need, but has no compassion for him, how does the love of God live in him?”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the responsibility of believers to share their resources with those in need. Failing to do so is seen as a lack of God’s love. While not directly about theft, it highlights the broader principle of using one’s resources ethically and generously. It calls believers to demonstrate love through tangible acts of compassion and generosity.
Job 20:19-20
“For he has oppressed and neglected the poor; He has violently taken away houses which he did not build. Because he knew no quietness or calm within him [because of his greed], he does not retain anything he desires.”
Commentary: This passage from Job describes the consequences of greed and oppression, including theft. The focus is on the moral and psychological turmoil that accompanies unethical behavior. It serves as a warning that dishonest gain leads to a lack of peace and satisfaction, ultimately resulting in divine judgment.
Proverbs 30:8-9
“Keep deception and lies far from me; Give me neither poverty nor riches; Feed me with the food that is my portion, so that I will not be full and deny You and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or that I will not be poor and steal, and so profane the name of my God.”
Commentary: The writer of Proverbs prays for a balanced life, avoiding both wealth and poverty to prevent sin. The concern is that extreme poverty could lead to stealing, thereby dishonoring God. This prayer reflects a desire for integrity and contentment, acknowledging the risks associated with both abundance and lack.
2 Timothy 2:19
“Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God [which He has laid] stands [sure and unshaken despite attacks], bearing this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of the Lord stand apart from wickedness and withdraw from wrongdoing.'”
Commentary: This verse calls believers to separate themselves from wickedness, including acts like theft. It emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects God’s holiness and righteousness. The assurance that “the Lord knows those who are His” provides comfort and a call to maintain a pure and blameless life.
Psalm 62:10
“Do not trust in oppression, And do not vainly hope in robbery; If riches increase, do not set your heart on them.”
Commentary: This psalm advises against placing trust in unethical means of acquiring wealth, such as robbery or oppression. It cautions against setting one’s heart on riches, even if they increase. The verse emphasizes the importance of integrity and warns against the spiritual dangers of greed and dishonest gain.
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What Does the Bible Say About Stealing
Stealing is a big no-no in the Bible, and it’s pretty clear about it. God really wants us to respect other people’s stuff. Imagine this: if you steal something, you’re taking what isn’t yours, and that’s like telling God you don’t trust Him to give you what you need. The Bible teaches us that everything we have is a gift from God, and if we go around taking other people’s things, we’re messing with those gifts and causing trouble.
Now, think about it from another angle: when you steal, you’re hurting someone else. You might think it’s just a small thing, like taking a candy bar or some money, but it’s more than that. The person you stole from might really need that item or money. Plus, when you steal, you’re breaking trust. Once you’ve taken something that isn’t yours, people might not trust you anymore, and that makes life a lot harder. Imagine trying to make friends or work with others when no one believes you’ll respect their belongings.
God wants us to live together in harmony and love, and stealing doesn’t fit into that picture at all. He wants us to be honest and trustworthy. When you’re honest, people know they can count on you, and that makes for a much better, more peaceful community. Instead of taking what doesn’t belong to you, God encourages us to work hard and help others. By doing this, you not only earn what you need, but you also build a good reputation and a sense of satisfaction from your own hard work.
Finally, stealing can lead to a lot of trouble, not just with other people, but also with God. It puts a strain on your relationship with Him because it’s like saying you don’t trust Him to provide for you. God loves us and wants to take care of us, but when we steal, we’re turning our backs on that love and care. So, the Bible’s message is pretty clear: don’t steal. Trust in God, work hard, and respect other people and their things. That way, everyone can live happily and in peace.