Digging Deeper: Stealing from One Another

J. L. Duncan comments that stealing “is a sin against the image of God in man because it does harm to a person created in the image of God.” Stealing from our fellow human beings is usually prompted by greed, envy, jealousy, or a sense of entitlement. When you take something that belongs to another, you rob them not only of the item you stole but also of their dignity.

If you have ever been the victim of theft, you know the sense of violation it brings. Quite often, the loss of the stolen item hurts less than the pain inflicted by the perpetrator. You feel vulnerable, and you lose trust in your fellow man. Unfortunately, we often have short memories. We can become the perpetrator of theft without giving a second thought to the damage we are inflicting on the victim.

Zacchaeus is the chief tax collector, which means he is a wealthy man. He, a Jew, is a representative of the Roman occupiers, thus making Zacchaeus a hated man. Tax collectors of that day were notorious for collecting more than the law required and pocketing the difference. Zacchaeus is literally stealing money right out of the pockets of his own people. He is hurting others while satisfying his own greed.

Fortunately for Zacchaeus, Jesus walks by. Jesus invites Himself to the home of Zacchaeus, greatly displeasing the crowd but bringing great joy to Zacchaeus. I find Zacchaeus’ confession to Jesus particularly interesting. He doesn’t directly confess to fraud but instead uses the tiny caveat, “if.” I am sure those in the crowd rolled their eyes when they heard Zacchaeus’ equivocal admission. However, Jesus knew what was in Zacchaeus’ heart, and He commended him for being a “true son of Abraham” (Luke 19:9).

Stealing from another is disobedience to a commandment of God. Theft may involve material possessions, but it often involves things that cannot be touched. We can rob someone of their joy, happiness, or passion. Just a harsh word or two can steal away a person’s dignity, confidence, or sense of worth. I personally believe the greatest damage theft causes is the loss of trust that follows. Trust is something that must be earned, and once it is lost, it is very difficult to regain. Think—better yet, pray—before taking any action that robs another person of anything. If you have already crossed that line, it is not too late to climb that tree, lock eyes with Jesus, and invite Him into your home and heart.