Overview
Extortion involves using power, position, or threats to illegally obtain what belongs to others. The Bible identifies extortion as a serious sin that violates God's commands for justice and righteousness. Those who practice extortion prioritize personal gain over the welfare of others and demonstrate a heart opposed to God's character.
Key Scriptures
"Hear this, you heads of Jacob and rulers of the house of Israel, who detest justice and make crooked all that is straight, who build Zion with blood and Jerusalem with iniquity!" (Micah 3:1–2, ESV). "You who hate the good and love the evil, who tear the skin from off my people and the flesh from off their bones" (Micah 3:3, ESV). "I wrote to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one" (1 Corinthians 5:11, ESV).
Application
Believers must reject all forms of extortion and refuse fellowship with those who practice it, maintaining integrity and fairness in all dealings.