Bible Verses About Stealing

Friends, if you’re searching for “Bible Verses About Stealing,” this content is for you. Today, I share Bible verses that will help you better understand the concept of theft according to the Bible. These scriptures provide insight into God’s perspective on stealing, its consequences, and the importance of honesty and integrity. Let’s explore what the Word says about respecting others’ property and living righteously in this aspect of life.

What Does the Bible Say About Stealing?

Stealing is more than just taking what’s not yours—it’s a breach of trust and integrity. The Bible offers wisdom on the importance of respecting others’ belongings and living honestly. It encourages us to cultivate a heart of generosity and fairness, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from living righteously and caring for one another. Let’s explore what Scripture has to say about this important topic.

Exodus 20:15 – Do not steal, a clear commandment

Thou shalt not steal

Exodus 20:15

Explanation:- The commandment against stealing is a clear directive emphasizing respect for others’ property. It underscores the importance of integrity and trust in a community, reminding us to uphold justice and fairness in our interactions and to honor the rights of others.

Leviticus 19:11 – Do not steal, lie, or deceive others

Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another

Leviticus 19:11

Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in our interactions. It instructs us to refrain from stealing, lying, and deceiving others, emphasizing the value of trust and respect in our relationships and community, aligning with broader biblical teachings on moral conduct.

Ephesians 4:28 – Work honestly and share with those in need

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth

Ephesians 4:28

Explanation:- This verse encourages those who have stolen to stop and instead engage in honest work. By doing so, individuals can earn a living and have the means to help others in need, promoting integrity and generosity within the community.

Proverbs 10:2 – Ill-gotten treasures are worthless, righteousness delivers from death

Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death

Proverbs 10:2

Explanation:- This verse highlights the futility of acquiring wealth through dishonest means, as such gains hold no true value. In contrast, living a righteous life leads to genuine security and salvation, suggesting that integrity and moral conduct are ultimately more rewarding.

Matthew 19:18 – Do not steal; uphold the commandments

He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness

Matthew 19:18

Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of following God’s commandments, specifically the directive not to steal. It underscores the ethical principle of respecting others’ property and upholding integrity. By adhering to this commandment, believers demonstrate love and respect for their neighbors.

Romans 13:9 – Love fulfills the law, prohibiting stealing

For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself

Romans 13:9

Explanation:- This verse highlights that love is the essence of the law, encompassing commandments like those against stealing. By truly loving others, we naturally refrain from actions that harm them, such as stealing, thus fulfilling the moral and ethical demands of the law.

Old Testament Verses About Theft and Stealing

The Old Testament lays down foundational principles about theft, emphasizing the importance of justice and restitution. These teachings guide us to live in harmony, valuing relationships over material possessions. Understanding these ancient laws helps us see the timeless value of honesty and respect for others, encouraging us to live with integrity in all aspects of life.

Exodus 21:16 – Kidnapping and selling people is punishable by death

He that stealeth a man, selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death

Exodus 21:16

Explanation:- This verse highlights the severity of kidnapping and human trafficking in biblical law, underscoring the profound value placed on human life and freedom. It reflects the moral principle that such grave injustices warrant the harshest penalties, emphasizing justice and protection in the community.

Deuteronomy 5:19 – Do not commit theft or steal

Neither shalt thou steal

Deuteronomy 5:19

Explanation:- This commandment underscores the importance of respecting others’ property and maintaining trust within a community. It highlights the ethical foundation of honesty and integrity, promoting a just society where individuals honor each other’s rights and possessions, reflecting broader moral principles in the Old Testament.

Proverbs 6:30 – Thieves aren’t scorned if stealing to satisfy hunger

Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry

Proverbs 6:30

Explanation:- This verse highlights that society may show some understanding or empathy towards those who steal out of necessity, such as to satisfy hunger. However, it does not justify the act of stealing; rather, it acknowledges human compassion for desperate circumstances.

Leviticus 6:2-4 – Restitution required for deceitful or dishonest actions

If a soul sin, commit a trespass against the Lord , lie unto his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep, or in fellowship, or in a thing taken away by violence, or hath deceived his neighbourOr have found that which was lost, lieth concerning it, sweareth falsely; in any of all these that a man doeth, sinning thereinThen it shall be, because he hath sinned, is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found

Leviticus 6:2-4

Explanation:- In Leviticus 6:2-4, the focus is on the necessity of restitution for theft or deceit. It underscores the moral obligation to make amends for dishonest actions, emphasizing justice and responsibility by requiring the wrongdoer to restore what was taken and add a penalty.

Exodus 22:1 – Repay theft with restitution, multiple times over

If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, four sheep for a sheep

Exodus 22:1

Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of restitution in cases of theft. It mandates that a thief must repay the stolen goods several times over, reinforcing the value of justice and responsibility. The principle underscores the need for accountability and making amends to restore community trust.

New Testament Teachings on Stealing and Dishonesty

The New Testament builds on earlier teachings, focusing on the heart’s transformation and the spirit of generosity. It calls us to put off the old ways of dishonesty and embrace a life of truthfulness and integrity. These teachings remind us that living honestly not only honors God but also enriches our relationships and communities.

1 Corinthians 6:10 – Thieves won’t inherit God’s kingdom

Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God

1 Corinthians 6:10

Explanation:- This verse highlights that those who engage in theft and dishonesty will not inherit God’s kingdom. It underscores the importance of living a life of integrity and righteousness, aligning one’s actions with Christian values to be part of God’s eternal promise.

Luke 19:8 – Zacchaeus pledges restitution and generosity

Zacchaeus stood, said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold

Luke 19:8

Explanation:- Zacchaeus, a tax collector, promises to repay those he defrauded and give generously to the poor. This act of restitution and generosity demonstrates a transformative encounter with Jesus, highlighting New Testament teachings on the importance of repentance and integrity in overcoming dishonesty.

Matthew 15:19-20 – Evil thoughts and actions defile, including theft

For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemiesThese are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man

Matthew 15:19-20

Explanation:- This passage highlights that evil thoughts and actions, such as theft, originate from the heart and defile a person. It teaches that true defilement comes not from external factors but from the immoral intentions and deeds within, emphasizing honesty and integrity.

Colossians 3:9 – Do not lie, shed your old deceitful self

Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds

Colossians 3:9

Explanation:- Colossians 3:9 urges believers to abandon deceit and dishonesty, reflecting a transformation from their old, sinful nature. Embracing truthfulness is part of adopting a new life in Christ, aligning with New Testament teachings on integrity and rejecting theft and falsehood.

The Ten Commandments and Thou Shalt Not Steal

The Ten Commandments serve as a moral compass for living a life that honors God and respects others. “Thou shalt not steal” is not just a rule but an invitation to trust in God’s provision and to respect the rights of others. By adhering to this commandment, we build communities rooted in trust and mutual respect.

Exodus 20:17 – Do not covet others’ possessions or relationships

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s

Exodus 20:17

Explanation:- This verse advises against desiring what belongs to others, including their possessions or relationships. It highlights the importance of contentment and respect for others’ property, underpinning the broader commandment against stealing by addressing the root of such actions—covetousness.

James 2:10-11 – Breaking one commandment breaks the whole law

For whosoever shall keep the whole law, yet offend in one point, he is guilty of allFor he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law

James 2:10-11

Explanation:- This verse highlights the interconnectedness of God’s laws, emphasizing that violating one commandment, such as stealing, is akin to breaking the entire law. It underscores the importance of adhering to all commandments as a unified expression of faith and obedience.

Bible Verses About Returning What Was Stolen

Restitution is a powerful theme in the Bible, highlighting the importance of making amends and restoring what was wrongfully taken. Returning what was stolen is a step toward healing and reconciliation, demonstrating genuine repentance. This act not only repairs the breach but also restores trust and fosters a spirit of forgiveness and renewal.

Leviticus 6:4-5 – Full restitution and additional compensation required

Then it shall be, because he hath sinned, is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he foundOr all that about which he hath sworn falsely; he shall even restore it in the principal, shall add the fifth part more thereto, give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his trespass offering

Leviticus 6:4-5

Explanation:- This passage highlights the importance of making full restitution when someone has wronged another by stealing. It requires not only returning what was taken but also adding additional compensation, underscoring the value of integrity and responsibility in restoring justice and relationships.

Numbers 5:7 – Confess sins, make restitution, add twenty percent

Then they shall confess their sin which they have done: he shall recompense his trespass with the principal thereof, add unto it the fifth part thereof, give it unto him against whom he hath trespassed

Numbers 5:7

Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of confessing sins and making amends when one has acted dishonestly. It instructs individuals to not only return what they have stolen but also to add an additional twenty percent as restitution, emphasizing accountability and justice in restoring relationships.

Exodus 22:1-4 – Restitution and penalties for theft

If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, four sheep for a sheepIf a thief be found breaking up, be smitten that he die, there shall no blood be shed for himIf the sun be risen upon him, there shall be blood shed for him; for he should make full restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theftIf the theft be certainly found in his hand alive, whether it be ox, or ass, or sheep; he shall restore double

Exodus 22:1-4

Explanation:- This passage outlines the laws of restitution for theft, emphasizing the importance of returning stolen goods and setting penalties for the thief. It highlights the biblical principle of justice and accountability, ensuring that wrongs are corrected and victims are compensated.

Scripture on Working Honestly Instead of Stealing

The Bible encourages us to work diligently and honestly, reminding us that our labor is not just for our benefit but also for serving others. By working with integrity, we honor God and support our communities. This principle fosters a culture of respect and trust, where everyone can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 – Work diligently, don’t be idle or disruptive

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eatFor we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodiesNow them that are such we command exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, eat their own bread

2 Thessalonians 3:10-12

Explanation:- This passage highlights the importance of working diligently and honestly, urging individuals to avoid idleness and disruptive behavior. It encourages self-sufficiency and responsibility, promoting work as a means to provide for oneself rather than resorting to dishonest means such as stealing.

Proverbs 12:11 – Work diligently for sustenance, avoid chasing fantasies

He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding

Proverbs 12:11

Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of working diligently to provide for oneself rather than engaging in dishonest activities like stealing. It contrasts the wisdom of honest labor with the folly of pursuing unrealistic fantasies, encouraging a life of integrity and hard work.

Colossians 3:23 – Work wholeheartedly as for the Lord, not humans

Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, not unto men

Colossians 3:23

Explanation:- This verse encourages us to approach our work with sincerity and dedication, not seeking approval from people but serving God with integrity. It reminds us to choose honest labor over stealing, aligning our actions with divine principles and fostering a life of genuine purpose.

Biblical Consequences of Stealing and Theft

Scripture warns of the consequences of theft, emphasizing that dishonest actions can lead to loss and broken relationships. These warnings serve as a reminder of the importance of choosing integrity and honesty. By understanding these consequences, we are encouraged to live in a way that honors God and respects others, fostering peace and trust.

Proverbs 29:24 – Partnering with a thief brings personal ruin

Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, bewrayeth it not

Proverbs 29:24

Explanation:- Partnering with a thief leads to self-destruction by implicating oneself in wrongdoing. It highlights the moral and legal consequences of theft, underscoring the importance of choosing integrity and honesty to avoid personal ruin and uphold righteousness.

Jeremiah 7:9-11 – False worship, stealing, and deceit condemned

Will ye steal, murder, commit adultery, swear falsely, burn incense unto Baal, walk after other gods whom ye know notAnd come stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, say, We are delivered to do all these abominations?Is this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I have seen it, saith the Lord

Jeremiah 7:9-11

Explanation:- In this passage, God condemns the hypocrisy of those who engage in theft, deceit, and false worship while believing they can find refuge in His temple. It highlights that true worship demands integrity and that God sees through actions that contradict His commandments.

Proverbs 6:30-31 – Thief repays sevenfold, suffers for stealing

Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungryBut if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house

Proverbs 6:30-31

Explanation:- This passage highlights the severe consequences of theft, emphasizing that a thief must repay multiple times the value of what was stolen, even if driven by necessity. It underscores the moral and ethical weight of stealing, warning of the inevitable suffering and accountability that follows.

Ezekiel 18:10-13 – Sin leads to death and destruction

If he beget a son that is a robber, a shedder of blood, that doeth the like to any one of these thingsAnd that doeth not any of those duties, but even hath eaten upon the mountains, defiled his neighbour’s wifeHath oppressed the poor needy, hath spoiled by violence, hath not restored the pledge, hath lifted up his eyes to the idols, hath committed abominationHath given forth upon usury, hath taken increase: shall he then live? he shall not live: he hath done all these abominations; he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him

Ezekiel 18:10-13

Explanation:- This passage highlights the severe consequences of sinful actions, including theft. It underscores that engaging in such behaviors leads to spiritual and moral decay, ultimately resulting in death and destruction. The message serves as a warning to choose righteousness over wrongdoing to avoid dire outcomes.

God’s Forgiveness for Those Who Have Stolen

God’s grace and forgiveness are available to all, even those who have stolen or acted dishonestly. Through genuine repentance and a commitment to change, we can experience God’s mercy and a fresh start. This assurance of forgiveness inspires hope and encourages us to live in a way that reflects God’s love and compassion to others.

1 John 1:9 – Confession brings God’s forgiveness and cleansing from sin

If we confess our sins, he is faithful just to forgive us our sins, to cleanse us from all unrighteousness

1 John 1:9

Explanation:- Confession leads to divine forgiveness and purification from sin, offering hope to those who have stolen. This verse reassures us that by honestly acknowledging our wrongs, God is faithful to forgive and cleanse us, restoring our relationship with Him.

Luke 23:42-43 – Thief’s repentance, Jesus promises paradise

He said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdomAnd Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise

Luke 23:42-43

Explanation:- In this passage, a repentant thief acknowledges Jesus’ divinity and seeks forgiveness. Jesus’ promise of paradise highlights God’s boundless mercy and readiness to forgive, even in the final moments, offering hope to those who turn away from wrongdoing and seek redemption.

2 Chronicles 7:14 – God’s forgiveness through humility and repentance

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, pray, seek my face, turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, will heal their land

2 Chronicles 7:14

Explanation:- This verse highlights the power of humility and repentance in seeking God’s forgiveness. It reassures that when those who have strayed, even through acts like stealing, turn back to God with sincere hearts, He promises healing and restoration.

Psalm 51:1-2 – Plea for mercy and cleansing from sin

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressionsWash me throughly from mine iniquity, cleanse me from my sin

Psalm 51:1-2

Explanation:- Psalm 51:1-2 is a heartfelt plea for mercy and cleansing, highlighting God’s boundless compassion and forgiveness. For those who have stolen, it serves as a reminder that sincere repentance can lead to divine forgiveness and purification from sin, offering a path to redemption.

Isaiah 1:18 – God forgives, making scarlet sins white as snow

Come now, let us reason together, saith the Lord : though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool

Isaiah 1:18

Explanation:- God’s message offers hope and forgiveness to those burdened by sin, including theft. The promise is that no matter how severe one’s wrongdoings, divine forgiveness can purify and transform, turning the deepest stains of sin into purity akin to fresh snow.