"He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need." - Ephesians 4:28 (NASB)
In verse 28, Paul sends a strong message to those who steal, urging them to stop this behavior. The use of a Present Active Imperative shows that he expects them to keep following this command; indicating that even after having met the Lord, some still engage in stealing, and they should be cautioned against this conduct. This injunction may seem strange to us, but it was not unusual for those who consider how little stealing was thought of in the pagan culture, and how likely these habits are to continue among converts from the pagan world. By using the word “steals” instead of “thief,” Paul shifts the focus to the action itself rather than just labeling the person. This change recognizes the real possibility for positive change and improvement, showing how embracing a new life in Christ can powerfully impact both actions and character.
It’s important to understand how embracing Christian virtues can truly change us. By regularly practicing these virtues, they become our second nature. This transformation in turn, becomes powerful evidence of our salvation, giving a strong witness of hope to those who are lost.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the exhortation against stealing is not solely restricted to simple thievery but extends to a broader ethical perspective, aligning with Christian values and the eighth commandment of the Decalogue. It includes less obvious ways of theft, like not paying workers enough, charging too much, and being dishonest in our political, economic, and socio-cultural context1.
In the subsequent clause, “But rather let him labor, working with his hands that which is good,” Paul presents an antidote to theft. He strongly emphasizes the importance of honest labor as a way to prevent poverty, which, if not addressed, could lead people to resort to theft.
Moreover, Paul’s ethical call to honest labor went beyond the individual realm and reached out to the collective well-being of the community. Implied in this encouragement was the transformative impact of industriousness, not only in providing for one’s own needs, but also in easing the suffering of those in need. Paul intimates the truth that people who are in need have a claim to our earnings (this comes in the form of taxes we pay). Indeed, when done with honesty and integrity, honest labor becomes more than just a way to survive – it becomes a means to help others and build a better society in general.
It is important to consider the act of giving as a reflection of our faith and spiritual wellbeing. Generosity and selflessness in giving are fundamental aspects of the Christian faith. The act of giving is often linked to the concept of stewardship, emphasizing the responsible and generous management of resources that have been entrusted to us. Giving serves as a barometer of our Christian lives.
In summary, abstaining from dishonesty, engaging in honest work, and adopting a mindset of generosity and stewardship, we can embody the core of our faith and make meaningful contributions to the welfare of others in our society. Through these principles, we can combat injustice, alleviate suffering, in a world that desperately needs our Christian witness.
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