WLC 140

Westminster Larger Catechism

Q140. Which is the eighth commandment?

The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.

Proof texts

For discussion

  1. The Assembly cited Ex. 20:15 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
  2. WSC Q45 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
  3. HC Q92 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
  4. The Assembly divided over this: Justification and the Antinomian Crisis. How do you secure sola fide without letting the law fall away? What turns on the answer?

Read alongside

WSC Q45 · HC Q92

Leader's notes

A Body of Divinity (Thomas Ridgley): Quest. CXL., CXLI. QUEST. CXL. Which is the eighth Commandment? ANSW. The eighth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not steal.] QUEST. CXLI. What are the duties required in the eighth Commandment? ANSW. The duties required in the eighth Commandment are, truth, faithfulness, and justice in contracts, and commerce between man and man; rendering to every one his due; restitution of goods unlawfully detained from the right owners thereof; giving, and lending freely, according to our abilities, and the necessities of others; moderation of our judgments, wills, and affections, concerning worldly goods; a provident care and study to get, keep, use, and dispose those things which are necessary and convenient for the sustentation of our nature, and suitable to our condition; a…