Theft(burglary, larceny, stealing)
Summary
Theft is forbidden by the eighth commandment, with Scripture prescribing restitution for stolen property and warning that thieves will not inherit the kingdom of God.
☩Old Testament Law
The eighth commandment declares, 'You shall not steal.' The Mosaic law prescribed restitution for theft: if a man stole an ox or sheep and killed or sold it, he must restore five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep. If the stolen item was found alive in his possession, he must restore double. A thief who could not make restitution could be sold for his theft.
☩New Testament Teaching
Paul lists theft among sins that exclude from the kingdom of God, but declares that former thieves are washed, sanctified, and justified in Christ. He commands that those who stole must steal no more, but rather labor honestly to have something to share with those in need. Christ condemned the Temple traders for making God's house a den of thieves.
