20 Bible Verses About Stealing | Stories & Biblical Guidance

Stealing is universally recognized as wrong, but what does the Bible specifically say about it? For centuries, Scripture has provided clear guidance on the topic of theft—not only condemning the act but offering hope for repentance and restoration.

Whether you’re curious about the moral implications of stealing, seeking comfort for past mistakes, or wanting to teach others about honesty through biblical wisdom, this comprehensive guide dives deep into Bible verses about stealing. We’ll explore key passages, stories, spiritual meanings, and practical applications grounded in faith.

What Is Stealing According to the Bible?

Stealing, in the biblical sense, is the unlawful taking of another’s property or possessions without permission. But the Bible also addresses broader forms of theft that extend beyond physical goods—such as deceit, fraud, and unjust gain.

Moral and Spiritual Dimensions

• Theft is a sin against God and man: Stealing violates the commandment to love your neighbor and respect their rights (Exodus 20:15).

• Not limited to physical objects: Stealing includes lying, cheating, or exploiting others, damaging relationships and trust.

• A matter of the heart: Jesus emphasized inner purity, meaning even covetous desires can be spiritually harmful (Matthew 5:21-22).

Read Also: Bible Verses About Time

Key Bible Verses About Stealing

Let’s explore foundational scriptures that shape the biblical stance on stealing.

The Ten Commandments: A Clear Prohibition

• Exodus 20:15 – “You shall not steal.”

This direct commandment is foundational, establishing theft as morally unacceptable.

Old Testament Verses on Stealing

• Leviticus 19:11
  “Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”

• Proverbs 6:30-31
  “People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy himself when he is hungry, but if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold…”

This passage shows God’s justice balanced with understanding human needs.

• Ezekiel 18:12
  “He steals and robs… he shall surely die.”

Stealing without repentance is seen as serious sin.

New Testament Verses on Stealing

• Ephesians 4:28
  “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands.”

• 1 Corinthians 6:10
  “…nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”

• Romans 13:9
  “The commandments… ‘You shall not steal,’ and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one rule: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

• Matthew 19:18
  “…do not steal, do not testify falsely, honor your father and mother…”

Biblical Stories and Examples Related to Stealing

Stories in the Bible illustrate the consequences of theft and the possibility of redemption.

Cain and Abel (Genesis 4)

Though not direct theft, Cain’s jealousy led to murder—the root of covetousness and sin related to stealing from another’s life.

Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11)

They lied about the proceeds of a land sale, effectively stealing from the early church community, showing the seriousness of deceit and theft.

Zacchaeus the Tax Collector (Luke 19:1-10)

A repentant thief who pledged to make restitution, embodying forgiveness and transformation through Christ.

The Consequences of Stealing in the Bible

Spiritual Consequences

• Alienation from God (Isaiah 59:6)

• Loss of inheritance in God’s kingdom (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

Social and Legal Consequences

• Restitution and repayment (Exodus 22:1-4)

• Possible punishments, including death in extreme cases (Deuteronomy 19:21)

God’s Mercy and Forgiveness

God offers restoration for those who repent sincerely (Psalm 51, 1 John 1:9).

Repentance, Forgiveness, and Restitution in Scripture

Biblical Call to Repent

• Confess your sins (Proverbs 28:13)

• Turn away from theft (Ezekiel 18:30-32)

Restitution Principles

• Leviticus 6:1-7 outlines making full restitution plus an additional penalty.

• Zacchaeus restored what he stole (Luke 19:8).

Spiritual Lessons From Bible Verses About Stealing

Integrity and Honesty

• Living truthfully honors God and builds trust (Proverbs 10:9).

Stewardship of God’s Blessings

• Recognizing all we have is from God, we should not take what belongs to others (James 1:17).

Love Your Neighbor

• Respecting others’ property is part of loving your neighbor as yourself (Mark 12:31).

Practical Applications for Today

Avoiding Modern Forms of Stealing

• Intellectual property theft

• Time theft at work

• Plagiarism

Teaching Children Biblical Honesty

• Use simple Bible verses like “You shall not steal” (Exodus 20:15)

• Encourage restitution and apology

Role of Communities

• Churches can foster accountability and encourage integrity

• Support for those struggling with temptation to steal

Common Misconceptions About Stealing in the Bible

• Is stealing ever justified? Scripture acknowledges survival needs but upholds honesty and restitution.

• Borrowing without asking—is it stealing? Context matters; honesty and permission are key.

• Difference between coveting and stealing: Coveting is desire; stealing is action.

Bible Verses on Related Topics

• Coveting vs. Stealing (Exodus 20:17)

• Greed and Theft (Luke 12:15)

• Honesty and Truthfulness (Proverbs 12:22)

Bible Verses About Stealing FAQs

1. What Does the Bible Say About Stealing from God?

Taking God’s blessings without gratitude or misusing them is akin to stealing (Malachi 3:8-10).

2. Is Stealing Always a Sin According to the Bible?

Yes, stealing is sinful, though the Bible shows compassion for survival-driven theft but calls for repentance and restitution.

3. How Should a Christian Respond After Stealing?

Confess, repent, make restitution if possible, and seek God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9).

4. Are There Examples of Forgiveness for Thieves in the Bible?

Yes, Zacchaeus and the thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43) both received forgiveness.

5. What Is the Biblical Punishment for Stealing?

Restitution is required, and severe cases had legal penalties in the Old Testament.

6. Does the Bible Address Stealing in the Workplace?

Yes, honest labor is emphasized, and stealing wages or time is condemned (Ephesians 4:28).

7. How Can Bible Verses About Stealing Help Build Better Character?

By teaching integrity, respect, and responsibility.

8. What Is the Difference Between Stealing and Borrowing?

Borrowing is temporary and with permission; stealing is taking without consent.

9. Are There Bible Verses Encouraging Restitution?

Yes, Leviticus 6:1-7 provides clear instructions.

10. Can Stealing Ever Be Justified in Emergencies?

The Bible shows empathy for survival needs but encourages confession and restitution afterward.

Conclusion

Stealing is unequivocally condemned in the Bible, but Scripture also offers hope and restoration through repentance and honesty. By embracing biblical teachings on honesty, stewardship, and love, believers can honor God and foster trust within their communities. Live with integrity, confess wrongs, and rest in God’s grace to walk in freedom and righteousness.