Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Don't Steal - Promote Wealth

Bryan Schneider · November 20, 2021

Exodus 20:15

sharonrpc.org/sermons/don-t-steal-promote-wealth

Summary

The eighth commandment reaches beyond obvious theft to fraud, broken contracts, exploitation, waste, and every unjust way of taking or withholding a neighbor's goods.
Because money touches ordinary life, both individuals and institutions face constant temptation to enrich themselves at another's expense.
The command is positive as well as negative: believers work honestly, protect property, practice contentment, and promote their neighbor's outward good.
Christ was numbered with thieves and grants paradise to a repentant thief, so forgiven sinners pursue economic justice from gratitude rather than self-righteousness.

Have I benefited from dishonest work, billing, borrowing, contracts, or use of another's property?
Does my financial conduct protect or prejudice my neighbor's welfare?
Where do covetousness or discontent make theft appear reasonable?
Am I seeking pardon solely through the crucified Christ and then making restitution where possible?

Theft: Any unjust taking or withholding of what belongs to another.
Economic justice: Truthful dealing, faithful contracts, fair measures, and active care for a neighbor's material welfare.
Contentment: Receiving God's provision without coveting or injuring another to gain more.