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Ephesians 4:28 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.
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Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/ephesians/4.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/ephesians/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/ephesians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />The <i>one</i> stealing, let him steal no longer, but rather let him toil, working with the own hands what <i>is</i> good, so that he may have <i>something</i> to impart to the <i>one</i> having need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/ephesians/4.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with <i>his</i> hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/ephesians/4.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with <i>his</i> hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/ephesians/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />The one who steals must no longer steal; but rather he must labor, producing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have <i>something</i> to share with the one who has need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/ephesians/4.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/ephesians/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Let him who steals steal no longer; but rather let him labor, performing with his own hands what is good, in order that he may have <i>something</i> to share with him who has need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/ephesians/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />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 <i>something</i> to share with one who has need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/ephesians/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />The thief [who has become a believer] must no longer steal, but instead he must work hard [making an honest living], producing that which is good with his own hands, so that he will have <i>something</i> to share with those in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/ephesians/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Let the thief no longer steal. Instead, he is to do honest work with his own hands, so that he has something to share with anyone in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/ephesians/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The thief must no longer steal. Instead, he must do honest work with his own hands, so that he has something to share with anyone in need. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/ephesians/4.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/ephesians/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />If you are a thief, quit stealing. Be honest and work hard, so you will have something to give to people in need. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/ephesians/4.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have whereof to give to him that hath need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/ephesians/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Thieves must quit stealing and, instead, they must work hard. They should do something good with their hands so that they'll have something to share with those in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/ephesians/4.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />If you used to rob, you must stop robbing and start working, in order to earn an honest living for yourself and to be able to help the poor. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/ephesians/4.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />The thief must no longer steal but must work hard and do what is good with his own hands, so that he might earn something to give to the needy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/ephesians/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/ephesians/4.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />The one who steals must steal no longer; rather he must labor, doing good with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with the one who has need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/ephesians/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Let him who stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have something to give to him who has need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/ephesians/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/ephesians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />He who has been a thief must steal no more, but, instead of that, should work with his own hands in honest industry, so that he may have something of which he can give the needy a share.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/ephesians/4.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Let him who stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, producing with his hands something that is good, that he may have something to give to him who has need. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/ephesians/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />whoever is stealing let him no longer steal, but rather let him labor, working the thing that is good with the hands, that he may have to impart to him having need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/ephesians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />The <i>one</i> stealing, let him steal no longer, but rather let him toil, working with the own hands what <i>is</i> good, so that he may have <i>something</i> to impart to the <i>one</i> having need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/ephesians/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> whoso is stealing let him no more steal, but rather let him labour, working the thing that is good with the hands, that he may have to impart to him having need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/ephesians/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />He stealing let him steal no more: and rather let him be wearied from fatigue, working good with the hands, that he have to impart to him having need.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/ephesians/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />He that stole, let him now steal no more; but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have something to give to him that suffereth need. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/ephesians/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Whoever was stealing, let him now not steal, but rather let him labor, working with his hands, doing what is good, so that he may have something to distribute to those who suffer need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/ephesians/4.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />The thief must no longer steal, but rather labor, doing honest work with his [own] hands, so that he may have something to share with one in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/ephesians/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Thieves must give up stealing; rather let them labor and work honestly with their own hands, so as to have something to share with the needy.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/ephesians/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />From henceforth let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor with his hands and do good deeds, that he may have something to give to him who is in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/ephesians/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />But whoever has stolen, let him not steal from now on, but let him toil with his hands and produce good that he might have to give to the one who is in need.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/ephesians/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />Let him that steals, steal no more: but rather let labor, working with his hands that which is good, that he may have something to give to him that has need.<CM><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/ephesians/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Let the one stealing steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his own hands doing that which is good, that he may have to give to the one having need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/ephesians/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />Let him that stole steal no more; but rather labour hard, working with his hands that which is good, that he may have something to give to him that is in want.<CM><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/ephesians/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />let him that stole, steal no more: but rather let him labour, to encrease his fortune with his own hands, that he may have wherewithal to relieve the needy:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/ephesians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />He who has been a thief must steal no more, but, instead of that, should work with his own hands in honest industry, so that he may have something of which he can give the needy a share.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/ephesians/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />Let him who stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands that which is good, that he may have to impart to him that has need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/ephesians/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />Let him that stole steal no more; but rather let him labour, doing <i>some</i> good with <i>his</i> hands, that he may have <i>something</i> to bestow on him that hath need <i>of it.</i><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/ephesians/4-28.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AfeSHen3sAQ?start=776" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/ephesians/4.htm">New Life in Christ </a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">27</span>and do not give the devil a foothold. <span class="reftext">28</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: Ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">He who</a> <a href="/greek/2813.htm" title="2813: kleptōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- To steal. A primary verb; to filch.">has been stealing</a> <a href="/greek/2813.htm" title="2813: kleptetō (V-PMA-3S) -- To steal. A primary verb; to filch.">must steal</a> <a href="/greek/3371.htm" title="3371: mēketi (Adv) -- No longer, no more. From me and eti; no further.">no longer,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3123.htm" title="3123: mallon (Adv) -- More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather."></a> <a href="/greek/2872.htm" title="2872: kopiatō (V-PMA-3S) -- From a derivative of kopos; to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard.">must work,</a> <a href="/greek/2038.htm" title="2038: ergazomenos (V-PPM/P-NMS) -- To work, trade, perform, do, practice, commit, acquire by labor. ">doing</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/18.htm" title="18: agathon (Adj-ANS) -- A primary word; good.">good</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tais (Art-DFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">with</a> <a href="/greek/2398.htm" title="2398: idiais (Adj-DFP) -- Pertaining to self, i.e. One's own; by implication, private or separate.">his own</a> <a href="/greek/5495.htm" title="5495: chersin (N-DFP) -- A hand. ">hands,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">that</a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echē (V-PSA-3S) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">he may have something</a> <a href="/greek/3330.htm" title="3330: metadidonai (V-PNA) -- From meta and didomi; to give over, i.e. Share.">to share with</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the one</a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echonti (V-PPA-DMS) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">in</a> <a href="/greek/5532.htm" title="5532: chreian (N-AFS) -- From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution.">need.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">29</span>Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/exodus/20-15.htm">Exodus 20:15</a></span><br />You shall not steal.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/21-25.htm">Proverbs 21:25-26</a></span><br />The craving of the slacker kills him because his hands refuse to work. / All day long he covets more, but the righteous give without restraint.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/28-19.htm">Proverbs 28:19</a></span><br />The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/14-23.htm">Proverbs 14:23</a></span><br />There is profit in all labor, but mere talk leads only to poverty.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/leviticus/19-11.htm">Leviticus 19:11</a></span><br />You must not steal. You must not lie or deceive one another.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/5-19.htm">Deuteronomy 5:19</a></span><br />You shall not steal.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/1-17.htm">Isaiah 1:17</a></span><br />Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/22-13.htm">Jeremiah 22:13</a></span><br />“Woe to him who builds his palace by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms without justice, who makes his countrymen serve without pay, and fails to pay their wages,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/zechariah/8-16.htm">Zechariah 8:16-17</a></span><br />These are the things you must do: Speak truth to one another, render true and sound judgments in your gates, / do not plot evil in your hearts against your neighbor, and do not love to swear falsely, for I hate all these things,” declares the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/malachi/3-5.htm">Malachi 3:5</a></span><br />“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. And I will be a swift witness against sorcerers and adulterers and perjurers, against oppressors of the widowed and fatherless, and against those who defraud laborers of their wages and deny justice to the foreigner but do not fear Me,” says the LORD of Hosts.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-42.htm">Matthew 5:42</a></span><br />Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/3-11.htm">Luke 3:11</a></span><br />John replied, “Whoever has two tunics should share with him who has none, and whoever has food should do the same.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/19-8.htm">Luke 19:8</a></span><br />But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay it fourfold.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/20-35.htm">Acts 20:35</a></span><br />In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/12-13.htm">Romans 12:13</a></span><br />Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needs.</p><p class="hdg">him that.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/exodus/20-15.htm">Exodus 20:15,17</a></b></br> Thou shalt not steal… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/exodus/21-16.htm">Exodus 21:16</a></b></br> And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/30-9.htm">Proverbs 30:9</a></b></br> Lest I be full, and deny <i>thee</i>, and say, Who <i>is</i> the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God <i>in vain</i>.</p><p class="hdg">steal no more.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/34-32.htm">Job 34:32</a></b></br> <i>That which</i> I see not teach thou me: if I have done iniquity, I will do no more.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/28-13.htm">Proverbs 28:13</a></b></br> He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh <i>them</i> shall have mercy.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/3-8.htm">Luke 3:8,10-14</a></b></br> Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to <i>our</i> father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham… </p><p class="hdg">labour.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/13-11.htm">Proverbs 13:11</a></b></br> Wealth <i>gotten</i> by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/14-23.htm">Proverbs 14:23</a></b></br> In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips <i>tendeth</i> only to penury.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/20-34.htm">Acts 20:34,35</a></b></br> Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me… </p><p class="hdg">that he.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/3-11.htm">Luke 3:11</a></b></br> He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/21-1.htm">Luke 21:1-4</a></b></br> And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/john/13-29.htm">John 13:29</a></b></br> For some <i>of them</i> thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy <i>those things</i> that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.</p><p class="hdg">give.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/romans/12-13.htm">Romans 12:13</a></b></br> Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/9-12.htm">2 Corinthians 9:12-15</a></b></br> For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_timothy/6-18.htm">1 Timothy 6:18</a></b></br> That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/13-3.htm">Distribute</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">Good</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-11.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-7.htm">Honest</a> <a href="/galatians/3-21.htm">Impart</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-5.htm">Industry</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-15.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/galatians/4-27.htm">Labor</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-16.htm">Need</a> <a href="/john/13-10.htm">Needeth</a> <a href="/acts/24-17.htm">Needy</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-15.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-18.htm">Share</a> <a href="/galatians/6-3.htm">Something</a> <a href="/romans/13-9.htm">Steal</a> <a href="/zechariah/5-3.htm">Steals</a> <a href="/galatians/2-4.htm">Stole</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-10.htm">Thief</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-27.htm">Toil</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-7.htm">Whereof</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-19.htm">Work</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-19.htm">Working</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_timothy/6-18.htm">Distribute</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Good</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/philippians/1-18.htm">Honest</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Impart</a> <a href="/psalms/78-46.htm">Industry</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-4.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/colossians/1-29.htm">Labor</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Need</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-15.htm">Needeth</a> <a href="/exodus/22-25.htm">Needy</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-4.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-5.htm">Share</a> <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">Something</a> <a href="/titus/2-10.htm">Steal</a> <a href="/exodus/21-16.htm">Steals</a> <a href="/genesis/31-19.htm">Stole</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-2.htm">Thief</a> <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">Toil</a> <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">Whereof</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-7.htm">Work</a> <a href="/philippians/1-25.htm">Working</a><div class="vheading2">Ephesians 4</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">He exhorts to unity;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-7.htm">and declares that God therefore gives various gifts unto men;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">11. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">that his church might be edified,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-16.htm">and grow up in Christ.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">18. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-18.htm">He calls them from the impurity of the Gentiles;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">24. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-24.htm">to put on the new man;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">25. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-25.htm">to cast off lying;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">29. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">and corrupt communication.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; 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Stealing was a common issue in the ancient world, often driven by poverty or greed. The command to cease stealing reflects the moral and ethical standards of the new Christian life. This aligns with the Eighth Commandment, "You shall not steal" (<a href="/exodus/20-15.htm">Exodus 20:15</a>), emphasizing a return to God's law. The call to stop stealing is a call to repentance and a change of heart, which is a central theme in the New Testament (<a href="/luke/3-8.htm">Luke 3:8</a>).<p><b>but must work</b><br>Work is presented as a divine ordinance, established in <a href="/genesis/2-15.htm">Genesis 2:15</a> when God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden to work it. The emphasis on work here underscores the dignity and responsibility of labor. In the Greco-Roman world, manual labor was often looked down upon, but Christianity elevated the value of honest work. This reflects the teaching of <a href="/proverbs/14-23.htm">Proverbs 14:23</a>, "All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty."<p><b>doing good with his own hands</b><br>This phrase highlights the virtue of self-sufficiency and the importance of contributing positively to society. The use of "his own hands" suggests personal responsibility and integrity in one's labor. This is reminiscent of Paul's own example, as he often worked as a tentmaker to support himself (<a href="/acts/18-3.htm">Acts 18:3</a>). The emphasis on "doing good" aligns with the broader biblical teaching that work should not only provide for oneself but also serve others (<a href="/galatians/6-10.htm">Galatians 6:10</a>).<p><b>that he may have something to share with the one in need</b><br>The ultimate purpose of work, according to this passage, is not merely self-sustenance but generosity. This reflects the Christian principle of loving one's neighbor (<a href="/mark/12-31.htm">Mark 12:31</a>) and the early church's practice of sharing resources (<a href="/acts/2-44.htm">Acts 2:44-45</a>). The call to share with those in need echoes the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized caring for the poor and needy (<a href="/matthew/25-35.htm">Matthew 25:35-40</a>). This principle of generosity is a reflection of God's own nature, who provides abundantly for His creation.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a></b><br>The author of the letter to the Ephesians, providing guidance to the early Christian church on how to live a life worthy of their calling.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/e/ephesus.htm">Ephesus</a></b><br>A major city in Asia Minor where the Ephesian church was located. It was a center of trade and culture, which may have influenced the behaviors Paul addresses.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/e/early_christian_church.htm">Early Christian Church</a></b><br>The community of believers in Ephesus who were recipients of Paul's letter, facing challenges of living out their faith in a pagan society.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/transformation_of_behavior.htm">Transformation of Behavior</a></b><br>Paul emphasizes a radical change from a life of sin to one of righteousness. This transformation is a hallmark of Christian conversion and sanctification.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_honest_work.htm">The Value of Honest Work</a></b><br>Work is not merely a means of self-sustenance but a way to contribute positively to society and the community of believers.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/generosity_as_a_christian_virtue.htm">Generosity as a Christian Virtue</a></b><br>The ultimate goal of working is not just personal gain but to have the means to help others, reflecting Christ's love and generosity.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/i/integrity_in_action.htm">Integrity in Action</a></b><br>Christians are called to live with integrity, ensuring that their actions align with their faith, including in their professional and personal dealings.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_responsibility.htm">Community Responsibility</a></b><br>Believers are part of a larger body and have a responsibility to support and uplift one another, especially those in need.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ephesians_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ephesians 4</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'all_men_are_liars'_imply.htm">What insights does the Bible offer on hacking?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/actuality_vs._potentiality.htm">What is the purpose of work in a spiritual context?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_the_bible_support_mlm.htm">Is multi-level marketing supported by biblical teachings?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_about_hacking.htm">What insights does the Bible offer on hacking?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ephesians/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(28) <span class= "bld">Let him that stole</span> (properly, <span class= "ital">the stealer</span>) <span class= "bld">steal</span> <span class= "bld">no more. . . .</span>--In this verse St. Paul treats dishonesty, virtually, although less distinctly, from the same point of view as before. For he is not content with forbidding it, or even with forbidding it as fatal to society; but he directs that it be superseded by the opposite spirit of self-sacrifice, working in order to give to others what is honestly our own, as the fruit of the labour of "our own hands." In that direction there is a profound wisdom, in striking at the root of that exclusive selfishness which so often and so naturally exhibits itself in dishonesty. But we note in it also a peculiar harmony with the great doctrine of unity; for the sense of unity will always exhibit itself in working what is "good," that is, <span class= "ital">gracious, </span>for the sake of "him that needs."<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ephesians/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 28.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Let the stealer stem no more</span>. <span class="greek">Ὁ κλέπτων</span> may be translated either as a noun or as the present participle. In either case it implies that even Christians might continue to steal, and that they had to be warned against the habit. This may seem strange to us, but not to those who consider how little theft was thought of among the pagans, and how liable such habits are to remain among converts from heathenism. Where there is a low moral tone and an uneducated conscience, very great irregularities may be found. Dishonesty in trade, deceit in business, are just the same. Among the Ephesians, thieving was probably the result of idle habits and of dislike to hard work. Hence the apostle says, But rather let him labor, working with his hands the things that are good, that he may have to impart to him that hath need. Idleness is mean, labor is honorable; Christ calls us to work, not for this reason only, but in order that we may have something to give away. Paganism would rob others of what is rightfully their own; Christianity leads me to give to others what is rightfully my own. This different genius of the two systems appears here very clearly. Observe the true use of superfluities - look out for the needy, and give for their relief. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/ephesians/4-28.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">He who</span><br /><span class="grk">Ὁ</span> <span class="translit">(Ho)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">has been stealing</span><br /><span class="grk">κλέπτων</span> <span class="translit">(kleptōn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2813.htm">Strong's 2813: </a> </span><span class="str2">To steal. A primary verb; to filch.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">must steal</span><br /><span class="grk">κλεπτέτω</span> <span class="translit">(kleptetō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Imperative Active - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2813.htm">Strong's 2813: </a> </span><span class="str2">To steal. A primary verb; to filch.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">no longer,</span><br /><span class="grk">μηκέτι</span> <span class="translit">(mēketi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3371.htm">Strong's 3371: </a> </span><span class="str2">No longer, no more. From me and eti; no further.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but</span><br /><span class="grk">δὲ</span> <span class="translit">(de)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary particle; but, and, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">must work,</span><br /><span class="grk">κοπιάτω</span> <span class="translit">(kopiatō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Imperative Active - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2872.htm">Strong's 2872: </a> </span><span class="str2">From a derivative of kopos; to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">doing</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐργαζόμενος</span> <span class="translit">(ergazomenos)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2038.htm">Strong's 2038: </a> </span><span class="str2">To work, trade, perform, do, practice, commit, acquire by labor. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">good</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀγαθόν</span> <span class="translit">(agathon)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_18.htm">Strong's 18: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary word; 'good'.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">with</span><br /><span class="grk">ταῖς</span> <span class="translit">(tais)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Dative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[his] own</span><br /><span class="grk">ἰδίαις</span> <span class="translit">(idiais)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - Dative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2398.htm">Strong's 2398: </a> </span><span class="str2">Pertaining to self, i.e. One's own; by implication, private or separate.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">hands,</span><br /><span class="grk">χερσὶν</span> <span class="translit">(chersin)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5495.htm">Strong's 5495: </a> </span><span class="str2">A hand. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">that</span><br /><span class="grk">ἵνα</span> <span class="translit">(hina)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> </span><span class="str2">In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">he may have [something]</span><br /><span class="grk">ἔχῃ</span> <span class="translit">(echē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> </span><span class="str2">To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to share with</span><br /><span class="grk">μεταδιδόναι</span> <span class="translit">(metadidonai)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Infinitive Active<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3330.htm">Strong's 3330: </a> </span><span class="str2">From meta and didomi; to give over, i.e. Share.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the [one]</span><br /><span class="grk">τῷ</span> <span class="translit">(tō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Dative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[in]</span><br /><span class="grk">ἔχοντι</span> <span class="translit">(echonti)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Dative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> </span><span class="str2">To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">need.</span><br /><span class="grk">χρείαν</span> <span class="translit">(chreian)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5532.htm">Strong's 5532: </a> </span><span class="str2">From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/ephesians/4-28.htm">NT Letters: Ephesians 4:28 Let him who stole steal no more (Ephes. 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