I write diplomas and term papers to order. Is it a sin?translated

Reader question:

Hello. I am an Orthodox believer, I recently started going to church. I make money by writing diplomas, coursework, and internships. I started back in university. I help part-time students and sometimes full-time students, mainly teachers. From the point of view of faith, am I sinning? This brings in 60–70% of the income. My heart is heavy. I would like to understand how to approach this. It's scary to quit, it's my bread. A friend who works with me says: since clients come, it means God is helping to earn money. She is also a believer, but not a church member. What should I do?

Daria

Priest's answer:

Priest Victor NIKISHOV

Hello, Daria!

In my opinion, the fact that you write works for other people is a sin. These people pass off your work as their own and receive grades, diplomas, qualifications for it - and this is a deception. If someone did not complete the work himself during his studies, then his level of competence will definitely be lower than if he did the work independently. A person receives a diploma without knowledge. This is a lie that misleads teachers, future employers, and society as a whole.

“God helps you earn money” is a dangerous misconception. Just because clients come to you does not mean that God...