Stealing is more than just taking something that doesn’t belong to you—it’s a breach of trust, integrity, and God’s commands.
While society often minimizes theft or justifies it under certain circumstances, Scripture takes a firm stance against stealing.
But the Bible doesn’t stop at condemnation. It offers pathways to repentance, restoration, and transformation.
God’s Word teaches us not only to avoid stealing but also to embrace lives of honesty, generosity, and faith in His provision.
These 39 verses reveal the heart of God on the issue of stealing, providing wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking to align their lives with His truth.
Bible Verses About Stealing
1. Exodus 20:15
“You shall not steal.”
This commandment, part of the Ten Commandments, highlights the fundamental importance of respecting others’ property. It is a direct call to uphold integrity and justice in all areas of life.
When we steal, we violate the trust between ourselves, others, and God. This command challenges us to pursue righteousness and to trust that God will provide for our needs without resorting to dishonest means.
2. Leviticus 19:11
“Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”
This verse pairs stealing with lying and deception, showing that theft is often accompanied by other sins. It underscores the importance of honesty and fairness in all relationships.
Living truthfully and avoiding theft allows us to build strong, trustworthy relationships. When we align our actions with God’s commands, we reflect His character and strengthen the bonds of community.
3. Proverbs 10:2
“Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.”
This verse contrasts the temporary gains of dishonesty with the eternal rewards of righteousness. It reminds us that stolen goods or dishonest wealth ultimately lead to emptiness.
Choosing righteousness over ill-gotten wealth ensures that our blessings are rooted in God’s provision. Trusting in Him leads to lasting peace and eternal life.
4. 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 encourages transformation from a life of theft to one of productive and honest labor. It emphasizes the importance of not only providing for oneself but also helping others.
God’s plan for us includes living productive and generous lives. By turning away from stealing and working with integrity, we can honor Him and contribute to the well-being of those in need.
5. Proverbs 21:6
“A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.”
This verse warns against wealth gained through deceit, likening it to a vapor that quickly disappears and leads to destruction.
Honesty is more valuable than temporary riches. Pursuing integrity ensures that our blessings are free from guilt and aligned with God’s will.
6. Luke 19:8
“But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.’”
Zacchaeus’s response to encountering Jesus demonstrates true repentance and the desire to make amends for past wrongs. His actions reflect a heart transformed by grace.
Repentance involves more than words—it requires action. Zacchaeus’s willingness to restore what he had taken shows that genuine change includes repairing the harm caused by our sins.
7. Psalm 62:10
“Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.”
This verse warns against relying on dishonest means for wealth, emphasizing the fleeting and unstable nature of stolen goods.
Trusting in God’s provision frees us from the temptation to steal or deceive. True security and peace come from relying on Him, not on ill-gotten wealth.
8. Exodus 22:1
“Whoever steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it must pay back five head of cattle for the ox and four sheep for the sheep.”
This law emphasizes restitution, requiring thieves to repay more than what they took. It reflects God’s justice and the importance of restoring what was lost.
Making restitution demonstrates genuine repentance and helps rebuild trust. God’s system of justice prioritizes restoration and reconciliation over mere punishment.
9. Proverbs 22:22-23
“Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life.”
This verse condemns exploiting or stealing from the vulnerable, showing God’s deep concern for justice and fairness.
Taking advantage of the poor dishonors God, who is their defender. Living with integrity means treating all people, especially the vulnerable, with respect and fairness.
10. 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 verse shifts our focus from earthly possessions to eternal treasures, reminding us that material wealth is vulnerable to theft and decay.
By prioritizing spiritual riches, we align our hearts with God’s eternal kingdom. Trusting in Him gives us lasting peace and freedom from the anxieties of earthly gain.
11. Deuteronomy 5:19
“You shall not steal.”
This reiteration of the commandment against theft underscores its fundamental importance in God’s moral law. It remains a cornerstone of righteous living.
Stealing disrupts the trust that builds relationships and communities. Honoring this command protects the integrity of both individuals and society, aligning us with God’s will.
12. Isaiah 61:8
“For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing. In my faithfulness I will reward my people and make an everlasting covenant with them.”
This verse reveals God’s deep commitment to justice and His disdain for theft and deceit. It reflects His desire for fairness in all human interactions.
God’s promise of reward for justice motivates us to live with integrity. Stealing distances us from Him, but pursuing fairness and honesty reflects His heart for justice.
13. Proverbs 11:1
“The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.”
This verse condemns theft through deceitful business practices, emphasizing God’s delight in honesty.
In our dealings with others, accuracy and fairness reflect God’s values. Avoiding dishonesty builds trust and brings favor in His sight.
14. Jeremiah 7:9-10
“‘Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal and follow other gods you have not known, and then come and stand before me in this house, which bears my Name, and say, “We are safe”—safe to do all these detestable things?’”
This verse challenges those who think they can sin freely without consequences, including stealing. It exposes the hypocrisy of claiming safety while engaging in wrongdoing.
God calls us to live authentically, aligning our actions with His Word. Stealing and other sins cannot coexist with genuine worship and obedience.
15. Proverbs 28:6
“Better the poor whose walk is blameless than the rich whose ways are perverse.”
This verse highlights the value of integrity over wealth gained through dishonest means.
God honors those who live blamelessly, even in poverty. Choosing righteousness over riches reflects trust in His provision and eternal rewards.
16. Zechariah 5:3-4
“And he said to me, ‘This is the curse that is going out over the whole land; for according to what it says on one side, every thief will be banished, and according to what it says on the other, everyone who swears falsely will be banished. The Lord Almighty declares: I will send it out, and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of anyone who swears falsely by my name. It will remain in that house and destroy it completely, both its timbers and its stones.’”
This verse demonstrates God’s judgment against theft and dishonesty, emphasizing the seriousness of these sins.
God’s justice ensures that theft will not go unpunished. However, repentance and restoration can restore our relationship with Him and others.
17. John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
This verse contrasts the destructive nature of theft with the abundant life Jesus offers.
When we align with Christ, we turn away from behaviors that harm ourselves and others. His abundant life replaces the emptiness left by sin.
18. Exodus 22:7
“If anyone gives a neighbor silver or goods for safekeeping and they are stolen from the neighbor’s house, the thief, if caught, must pay back double.”
This law emphasizes restitution, requiring thieves to compensate for what they have taken.
Restitution restores trust and acknowledges the harm caused by theft. It reflects God’s justice and His desire for reconciliation.
19. Romans 13:9
“The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not covet,’ and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
This verse ties the command against stealing to the broader principle of loving others.
When we love our neighbors, we respect their property and refrain from taking what belongs to them. Living by this command fosters trust and community.
20. Psalm 37:21
“The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.”
This verse highlights the connection between righteousness and generosity while condemning dishonest practices like failing to repay debts.
Stealing takes many forms, including withholding what we owe. A righteous person honors their commitments and seeks to be a blessing to others through generosity.
21. 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 verse acknowledges the desperation that may lead to theft but still upholds the need for restitution.
Even in cases of need, theft has consequences. This verse reminds us that integrity and trust in God’s provision should guide us even in difficult circumstances.
22. Matthew 19:18
“‘Which ones?’ he inquired. Jesus replied, ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony.’”
Jesus reiterates the command against stealing as part of a life aligned with God’s will.
Avoiding theft is a basic aspect of living a life that honors God and respects others. This command invites us to live with integrity in all areas of life.
23. Proverbs 29:24
“The accomplices of thieves are their own enemies; they are put under oath and dare not testify.”
This verse warns against associating with thieves or participating in dishonest acts.
Being complicit in theft damages one’s character and leads to harmful consequences. God calls us to uphold honesty and avoid supporting wrongdoing.
24. Isaiah 10:1-2
“Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed, making widows their prey and robbing the fatherless.”
This verse condemns systemic theft and injustice, especially against the vulnerable.
Stealing through unjust systems is a grievous sin that dishonors God. Advocating for fairness and justice reflects His heart for the oppressed.
25. Proverbs 30:8-9
“Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.”
This verse acknowledges the temptation to steal in times of need but emphasizes trusting God for provision.
Relying on God for our daily needs helps us avoid the sins of greed and theft. It encourages us to cultivate contentment and faith in His care.
26. Luke 3:13-14
“‘Don’t collect any more than you are required to,’ he told them. Then some soldiers asked him, ‘And what should we do?’ He replied, ‘Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.’”
This verse addresses theft through extortion and challenges individuals to practice contentment and honesty.
Living honestly and avoiding greed honors God and protects others from harm. This attitude fosters trust and reflects a heart transformed by Christ.
27. Ezekiel 22:29
“The people of the land practice extortion and commit robbery; they oppress the poor and needy and mistreat the foreigner, denying them justice.”
This verse condemns a society marked by theft and oppression, emphasizing God’s disdain for such practices.
God calls His people to stand against injustice and advocate for those who are wronged. Upholding fairness and integrity reflects His character.
28. 1 Corinthians 6:10
“Nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse lists theft among the sins that separate individuals from God’s kingdom.
Stealing damages our relationship with God and others. Repentance and a commitment to honesty restore us to fellowship with Him.
29. 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 condemns theft through withholding wages, showing God’s concern for fairness in economic dealings.
Failing to honor agreements is a form of stealing. God calls us to treat others with fairness and ensure that our actions align with His justice.
30. Exodus 22:2-3
“If a thief is caught breaking in at night and is struck a fatal blow, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed; but if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed. Anyone who steals must certainly make restitution, but if they have nothing, they must be sold to pay for their theft.”
This law highlights the seriousness of theft and the need for restitution while addressing circumstances of self-defense.
God’s justice system emphasizes restoring what was taken and ensuring accountability. His laws reflect fairness and compassion, even for those who have stolen.
31. Malachi 3:8
“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ In tithes and offerings.”
This verse points to the spiritual theft of withholding what belongs to God, particularly tithes and offerings.
Stealing from God reflects a lack of trust in His provision. Honoring Him with our resources acknowledges His sovereignty and invites His blessings into our lives.
32. Proverbs 19:22
“What a person desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar.”
This verse emphasizes the value of integrity over material wealth gained through dishonesty.
Choosing honesty, even in poverty, reflects trust in God’s provision. Living with integrity ensures peace with God and others.
33. Colossians 3:9-10
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.”
This verse connects honesty with the transformative power of a relationship with Christ.
Stealing and dishonesty are incompatible with a life renewed by Christ. Embracing truth and integrity reflects the new identity we have in Him.
34. Job 24:14
“When daylight is gone, the murderer rises up, kills the poor and needy, and in the night steals forth like a thief.”
This verse describes the deceitful and destructive nature of thieves who exploit others under the cover of darkness.
God’s justice exposes and judges such acts, calling His people to live as lights of integrity and righteousness.
35. Mark 7:21-22
“For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly.”
This verse teaches that theft originates in the heart, along with other sins.
Transformation begins with addressing the condition of our hearts. Allowing God to renew us helps us resist the temptation to steal and embrace a life of honesty.
36. Acts 5:1-2
“Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.”
This verse recounts the story of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied about their offering and withheld what they had pledged to God.
Their deceit led to severe consequences, showing that stealing from God is a serious offense. Honesty and transparency in our commitments are essential to a faithful life.
37. 1 Peter 4:15
“If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.”
This verse warns against engaging in sinful behaviors, including theft, which bring suffering and dishonor.
Living righteously ensures that any hardships we face are for God’s glory, not as consequences of sinful actions.
38. Ecclesiastes 5:13
“I have seen a grievous evil under the sun: wealth hoarded to the harm of its owners.”
This verse condemns greed and hoarding, which often involve dishonesty and theft.
God calls us to use our resources generously and righteously. Hoarding for selfish gain dishonors Him and harms both ourselves and others.
39. Matthew 5:40
“And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.”
This verse reflects Jesus’ teaching on generosity and non-retaliation, even when wronged.
Rather than seeking revenge or resorting to dishonesty, we are called to respond with grace and trust in God’s justice.
Our Thoughts on What the Bible Says About Stealing
The Bible makes it abundantly clear that stealing in any form violates God’s commands and harms our relationship with Him and others.
Yet, these verses also remind us of God’s grace and His desire for restoration.
Repentance, restitution, and a commitment to honesty allow us to rebuild trust and reflect God’s character in our lives.
Stealing often stems from a lack of trust in God’s provision.
By leaning into His faithfulness and committing to integrity, we can live lives that honor Him and bless others.
Let these verses encourage you to embrace a life of truth, generosity, and faith, trusting that God will meet every need in His perfect way.