Q.73. Which is the eighth commandment?

A. The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.[i]

[i] Exod. 20:15.

Q.74. What is required in the eighth commandment?

A. The eighth commandment requireth the lawful procuring and furthering the wealth and outward estate of ourselves and others.[k]

[k] Gen. 30:30. 1 Tim. 5:8. Lev. 25:35. Deut. 22:1-5. Exod. 23:4,5. Gen. 47:14,20.

We are here taught,

1. That we are to endeavour by lawful means to procure wealth.

2. That we are to endeavour by lawful means to promote and further our outward estate.

3. That we are to endeavour by lawful means to assist others in procuring wealth.

4. That we are to endeavour by lawful means to further and promote the outward estate of others.

Q.75. What is forbidden in the eighth commandment?

A. The eighth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever doth or may unjustly hinder our own or our neighbour’s wealth or outward estate.[l]

[l] Prov. 21:17. Prov. 23:20,21. Prov. 28:19. Eph. 4:28.

We are here taught,

1. That we are forbidden to neglect lawful means for procuring wealth for ourselves and families.

2. That we are forbidden to do that which may hinder the increase of our wealth and outward estate.

3. That we are forbidden to neglect the furtherance of the wealth of others, when it is in our power.

4. That we are forbidden to do any thing which may hinder the furtherance of the wealth of others.