12 Bible Verses About Coveting

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Bible verses about coveting

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about coveting:

1. Exodus 20:17 – “Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.”
2. Romans 13:9 – “For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”
3. 1 Corinthians 6:10 – “Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”
4. Ephesians 5:5 – “For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”
5. Colossians 3:5 – “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.”
6. Hebrews 13:5 – “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

7. Luke 12:15 – “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”
8. Proverbs 28:16 – “The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.”
9. 1 Timothy 6:10 – “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”
10. Psalm 10:3 – “For the wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the Lord abhorreth.”
11. Jeremiah 6:13 – “For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.”
12. Ezekiel 33:31 – “And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.”

What does the bible say about coveting?

The Bible warns against coveting, which is the desire for something that belongs to someone else.

It is considered a sin because it can lead to jealousy, greed, and discontentment.

The Bible teaches that we should be content with what we have and not be envious of others.

Coveting can lead to harmful actions and can damage relationships.

Instead, the Bible encourages us to focus on gratitude, generosity, and trusting in God’s provision.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about coveting?

1. Exodus 20 – This chapter contains the Ten Commandments, including the commandment “You shall not covet.” Reading this chapter will give you a clear understanding of the importance of avoiding coveting in the eyes of God.

2. Romans 7 – In this chapter, the apostle Paul discusses the struggle with sin and the desires of the flesh. This can help you understand the internal battle that can arise when we give in to coveting.

3. Colossians 3 – This chapter emphasizes putting off the old self, including covetousness, and putting on the new self in Christ. It highlights the importance of living a life free from coveting and focusing on the things of God.

Reading these chapters will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of coveting and its implications in the Christian faith. It will help you see the importance of avoiding coveting and living a life that is pleasing to God.

Ideas and concepts related to coveting that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Envy: Envy is a feeling of discontent or resentment towards someone else’s possessions, qualities, or success. It is closely related to coveting as both involve desiring something that belongs to someone else. In the Bible, envy is often condemned as a sinful attitude that can lead to harmful actions.

2. Greed: Greed is an excessive desire for material wealth or possessions. It is closely related to coveting as both involve an intense desire for something that may be harmful or destructive. The Bible warns against the dangers of greed and encourages contentment with what one has.

3. Materialism: Materialism is the belief that material possessions and wealth are the most important things in life. It is related to coveting as both involve placing a high value on material goods. The Bible teaches that true fulfillment comes from spiritual riches rather than material wealth.

4. Idolatry: Idolatry is the worship of idols or the excessive devotion to something other than God. Coveting can lead to idolatry when someone places their desire for material possessions above their relationship with God. The Bible warns against idolatry and encourages believers to focus on serving God rather than pursuing worldly goods.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.