The Eighth Commandment: Do Not Steal
The eighth commandment is one of the most straightforward commandments: “You shall not steal” (Exodus 20:15). It is a clear directive to refrain from taking that which does not belong to us. However, there are many forms of stealing, and the commandment goes beyond just taking physical possessions. It also covers stealing intangible things like time, ideas, and even people’s dignity. Let us explore this commandment and how it applies to our lives as Christians.
What Is Stealing?
Stealing is taking something that belongs to someone else without their permission. It can take many forms, including physical theft, fraud, embezzlement, and plagiarism. It is important to remember that stealing is not just about taking things that do not belong to us. It also includes withholding what rightfully belongs to others, such as not paying our debts or withholding someone’s wages.
Biblical Examples
The Bible has many examples of stealing and the consequences that come with it. In the book of Joshua, a man named Achan stole some of the plunder from the city of Jericho, going against God’s command. As a result, he and his family were stoned to death (Joshua 7:20-26). In Proverbs 6:30-31, we read that people do not despise a thief if they steal to satisfy their hunger, but they will be punished if caught. The Bible is clear that stealing is wrong, and that there are consequences for those who engage in it.
Application of the Eighth Commandment
As Christians, we are called to be honest and to refrain from stealing. We should work hard to earn what we have, and not take what does not belong to us. This means not only refraining from physical theft but also being truthful in our dealings with others. It means paying our debts, respecting intellectual property rights, and not cheating on our taxes. It also means treating people with dignity and not exploiting them for our own gain.
The Apostle Paul reminds us of the importance of hard work and honesty in 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12: “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”
Conclusion
The eighth commandment reminds us of the importance of honesty and hard work, and the need to respect the property and dignity of others. As Christians, we are called to live our lives with integrity, refraining from taking what does not belong to us and working hard to earn what we have. Let us strive to live in accordance with God’s will and the teachings of Jesus Christ, who calls us to love one another and to treat each other with respect and compassion.