Robbery
“To tear away, seize by force”
Summary
Robbery in Scripture is the violent seizure of another's property, condemned by the law and prophets, and used figuratively to describe both human injustice and divine restoration.
☩Condemnation of Robbery
The Mosaic law explicitly forbade robbery: 'Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him.' The prophets condemned robbery as characteristic of a corrupt society alienated from God. Isaiah lists robbery among the sins God hates, and Ezekiel denounces those who 'exercise robbery, and have vexed the poor and needy.' Such sin called down divine judgment on individuals and nations alike.
☩The Good Shepherd and Robbers
Jesus contrasted Himself with thieves and robbers who come only to steal, kill, and destroy. False teachers who do not enter by the door are robbers, but Christ is the Good Shepherd who gives His life for the sheep. The parable of the Good Samaritan depicts a man fallen among robbers on the Jericho road, illustrating humanity's desperate need and God's compassionate rescue.
☩Christ's Humiliation
Paul writes that Christ, being in the form of God, did not consider equality with God 'robbery' (something to be grasped or exploited), but emptied Himself. This remarkable statement shows that though Christ possessed divine glory rightfully, He did not cling to it but willingly laid it aside for our salvation. His humiliation was voluntary, not something stripped from Him by force.
Related Verses13 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Robbery," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Robbery; Robber," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Robbery," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).