Ephesians 4:28

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with [his] hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Let {G2813} him that stole {G2813} steal {G2813} no more {G3371}: but {G1161} rather {G3123} let him labour {G2872}, working {G2038} with his hands {G5495} the thing which is good {G18}, that {G2443} he may have {G2192} to give {G3330} to him that needeth {G5532}{G2192}.

The thief must stop stealing; instead, he should make an honest living by his own efforts. This way he will be able to share with those in need.

He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need.

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have whereof to give to him that hath need.

Ephesians 4:28 is a powerful and practical command from the Apostle Paul, illustrating the transformative nature of Christian conversion. It moves beyond simply forbidding a negative behavior (stealing) and prescribes a positive, constructive alternative: honest labor for the purpose of generosity.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's broader exhortation in Ephesians 4:17-32, where he outlines the practical implications of living a life "worthy of the calling" (Ephesians 4:1). Having urged believers to "put off the old man" and "put on the new man" (Ephesians 4:22-24), Paul provides specific examples of how this transformation manifests in daily life. This verse follows commands against lying and unwholesome talk, emphasizing a radical shift in ethical conduct for those who are now in Christ.

Key Themes

  • Cessation of Sin: The initial command, "Let him that stole steal no more," directly addresses the repentance from past sinful behavior. It echoes the Eighth Commandment, "Thou shalt not steal," but places it within the context of Christian transformation.
  • Dignity of Honest Labor: Instead of illicit gain, believers are to "labour, working with [his] hands the thing which is good." This highlights the value and dignity of honest work, affirming that productive effort is a godly pursuit. The Greek word for "labour" here, kopiaō (κοπιάω), implies strenuous, diligent toil, emphasizing the effort involved in honest living. This principle is also seen in Paul's own example and teaching in 2 Thessalonians 3:10.
  • Purpose-Driven Generosity: The ultimate goal of this honest labor is not merely self-sufficiency but altruism: "that he may have to give to him that needeth." This elevates work beyond personal gain, framing it as a means to practice Christian charity and benevolence. It reflects the heart of God, who is a giver, and encourages believers to be conduits of His provision. This aligns with other New Testament teachings on generosity, such as Acts 20:35, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Practical Application

Ephesians 4:28 offers timeless guidance for believers today:

  • Repentance and Transformation: It calls for a complete break from past dishonest practices and a commitment to a new way of life in Christ. True repentance involves not just stopping sin but actively pursuing righteousness.
  • Value of Work: It underscores the importance of honest, diligent work as a means of providing for oneself and contributing positively to society. Every legitimate occupation, done with integrity, can be an act of worship.
  • Stewardship and Giving: It challenges us to view our labor and its fruits not just for personal consumption but as a resource to bless others, particularly the poor and needy. Our work becomes a channel for God's grace and provision in the world, embodying the principle of sharing with those who have none.

Reflection

This verse beautifully encapsulates the ethical demands of the "new man" in Christ: a life characterized by integrity, diligence, and compassionate generosity. It teaches that our work is not just a means to an end, but a vital part of our spiritual journey and a tangible expression of our love for God and neighbor.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Timothy 6:18

    That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:11

    And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:12

    That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and [that] ye may have lack of nothing.

  • Galatians 6:10

    As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:11

    For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:12

    Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

  • Exodus 20:15

    Thou shalt not steal.
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