Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "cheats" refers to individuals who engage in deceitful practices, often for personal gain, at the expense of others. The Bible addresses the issue of cheating in various forms, including dishonest scales, false testimony, and deceitful behavior, all of which are condemned as contrary to God's righteous standards.Old Testament References The Old Testament frequently addresses the issue of cheating, particularly in the context of commerce and justice. Leviticus 19:35-36 commands, "You must not use dishonest measures of length, weight, or volume. You shall maintain honest scales and weights, an honest ephah, and an honest hin. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt." This passage underscores the importance of integrity in business dealings, reflecting God's desire for fairness and honesty among His people. Proverbs also speaks against deceitful practices. Proverbs 11:1 states, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This verse highlights the moral repugnance of cheating in God's eyes and His pleasure in honesty. New Testament References In the New Testament, the theme of honesty and integrity continues. Jesus Himself addresses the issue of deceit in various teachings. In the Sermon on the Mount, He emphasizes the importance of truthfulness, saying, "But let your 'Yes' mean 'Yes,' and your 'No' mean 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one" (Matthew 5:37). This teaching underscores the value of straightforwardness and the avoidance of deceitful speech. The Apostle Paul also warns against deceitful behavior. In Ephesians 4:25 , he writes, "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body." Paul encourages believers to live in truth, reflecting the unity and integrity expected within the Christian community. Examples of Cheats in the Bible Several biblical narratives illustrate the consequences of cheating. One notable example is the account of Jacob and Esau. Jacob, whose name means "supplanter" or "deceiver," cheats his brother Esau out of his birthright and blessing (Genesis 25:29-34; 27:1-40). Although Jacob eventually becomes a patriarch of Israel, his deceit leads to significant familial strife and personal challenges. Another example is Ananias and Sapphira in the early church. In Acts 5:1-11, this couple sells a piece of property and deceitfully withholds part of the proceeds while claiming to donate the entire amount to the apostles. Their dishonesty results in their sudden deaths, serving as a stark warning against deceit within the Christian community. Moral and Ethical Implications The Bible's condemnation of cheating is rooted in the character of God, who is described as a God of truth and justice. Cheating undermines trust, damages relationships, and disrupts the social order that God intends for His people. Believers are called to reflect God's character by living lives marked by honesty and integrity. The biblical call to avoid cheating extends beyond mere avoidance of deceitful actions; it encompasses a heart attitude that values truth and fairness. As followers of Christ, believers are encouraged to pursue righteousness in all areas of life, recognizing that their actions reflect their relationship with God and their witness to the world. Library Treats of the Same. Self-Destruction Treatise xi. Exhortation to Martyrdom, Addressed to Fortunatus. Depravity Lies at the Bottom of Demon-Worship. The Unjust Steward Christianity and Business One Seed and Diverse Soils How John Tyrannized Over the Rest; and what Mischiefs the Zealots ... The Way to the City He Thus Proceeds to a Magnificent Discourse of the Interpretation ... Thesaurus Cheats (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Cheats (1 Occurrence). Leviticus 6:2 "If anyone sins, and commits a trespass against Yahweh, and deals ... /c/cheats.htm - 6k Chebar (8 Occurrences) Bite (13 Occurrences) Cheating (1 Occurrence) Cheat (5 Occurrences) Sharper (4 Occurrences) Resources What are valid reasons for breaking up with a boyfriend/girlfriend? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cheats (1 Occurrence)Leviticus 6:2 Subtopics Related Terms |