Jonah: I’ve noticed a concerning trend among some Christians—justifying piracy, like downloading movies or software illegally. I believe this is outright theft and a violation of God’s law. The Bible says in Exodus 20:15, “You shall not steal.” How can you reconcile piracy with God’s clear commandment?

Carl: I think it’s more nuanced. The commandment in Exodus is about tangible theft—taking something that deprives someone else of their possession. Piracy doesn’t involve physically taking something away. It’s more about accessing a copy. It’s worth asking whether the current system of media distribution is just or fair, especially when many people can’t afford access.

Jonah: That sounds like justifying sin to me. Piracy undermines the work of creators who deserve to be compensated for their labor. 1 Timothy 5:18 says, “The labourer deserves his wages.” By pirating, you’re essentially denying them their rightful earnings, which is unjust.

Carl: I agree that labourers deserve their wages, but we also need to consider the larger context. Many media corporations exploit both consumers and creators, charging exorbitant prices while underpaying their workers. Isaiah 10:1-2 condemns those who enact oppressive decrees and deprive the poor of their rights. If the system itself is exploitative, isn’t there a moral case for challenging it?

Jonah: Even if the system is flawed, breaking the law is not the solution. Christians are called to obey earthly authorities. Romans 13:1-2 says, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God.” Piracy is illegal, and engaging in it is defying that God-ordained order.

Carl: True, but there are times when obeying earthly laws isn’t the ultimate priority. For example, when human laws conflict with God’s justice, we follow God. Think about the early apostles in Acts 5:29, who said, “We must obey God rather than men.” If the system limits access to knowledge and culture, might it be a Christian duty to resist?

Jonah: That’s a dangerous path. We’re called to act with integrity and trust God to address injustices. Two wrongs don’t make a right. Instead of pirating, Christians should advocate for fairer systems and support creators in ways that honour God.

Carl: I agree that integrity matters, Jonah, but sometimes Christians are called to act pragmatically to ensure the well-being of others. If someone is using pirated media to educate themselves or enrich their faith, isn’t that a better outcome than remaining in ignorance because they can’t afford it? Jesus Himself said in Mark 2:27, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” Couldn’t the same principle apply to strict rules about intellectual property?

Jonah: That verse is about God’s law being made for our benefit, not an excuse to break it when convenient. Piracy isn’t about survival or faith—it’s about convenience and self-justification. Christians should be above reproach. 1 Peter 2:12 says to “live such good lives among the pagans that… they may see your good deeds and glorify God.”

Carl: But if we focus too much on legalism, we risk ignoring the broader mission of love and justice. Jesus criticised the Pharisees for prioritizing rules over mercy. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, what God requires is to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Shouldn’t we focus on the spirit of justice and accessibility rather than rigid adherence to man-made systems?

Jonah: Mercy and justice are essential, but they can’t justify sin. If Christians start compromising on something as clear as theft, where does it end? Instead of pirating, we should encourage sharing, lending, and free resources that align with God’s law.

Carl: That’s a fair point. Perhaps the solution is finding creative ways to make media more accessible without violating laws. But I still think it’s worth reexamining how Christians engage with unjust systems. After all, Jesus overturned tables in the temple when the system was corrupt. Maybe it’s time for us to challenge the status quo too.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.