Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, "dissemblers" refers to individuals who conceal their true motives, feelings, or beliefs, often through deceit or hypocrisy. The term is closely associated with duplicity and insincerity, which are condemned throughout Scripture. Dissemblers are often portrayed as those who present a false appearance to deceive others, leading to discord and mistrust within the community of believers.Old Testament References The concept of dissembling is addressed in several passages in the Old Testament. In Psalm 26:4, David declares, "I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites." Here, deceitful men are synonymous with dissemblers, highlighting the psalmist's commitment to integrity and truthfulness. Proverbs also speaks to the nature of dissemblers. Proverbs 26:24-26 warns, "A hateful man disguises himself with his speech, but he lays up deceit in his heart. When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart. Though his hatred is concealed by deception, his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly." This passage underscores the danger of those who use smooth words to mask their true intentions, emphasizing that their deceit will ultimately be revealed. New Testament References In the New Testament, Jesus frequently addresses the issue of hypocrisy, which is closely related to dissembling. In Matthew 23:27-28, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." Here, Jesus condemns the religious leaders for their outward show of piety that conceals their inner corruption. The apostle Paul also addresses dissembling in his epistles. In Galatians 2:13, he recounts an incident involving Peter: "The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy, so that by their hypocrisy even Barnabas was led astray." Paul uses this example to illustrate how dissembling can lead others into error and division within the church. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, dissembling is seen as a violation of the call to live in truth and sincerity before God and others. The Bible consistently calls believers to a standard of honesty and transparency, as seen in Ephesians 4:25: "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body." Dissemblers, by contrast, disrupt the unity and trust that should characterize the body of Christ. Moral and Ethical Considerations The moral and ethical implications of dissembling are significant. Dissemblers undermine relationships and community by fostering an environment of suspicion and mistrust. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of honesty and integrity, as seen in Proverbs 12:22: "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight." This verse highlights the value God places on truthfulness and the moral obligation of believers to reflect His character in their interactions with others. In summary, the Bible's treatment of dissemblers serves as a warning against the dangers of deceit and hypocrisy. It calls believers to a life of authenticity and truth, reflecting the nature of God in their words and actions. Library Whether Hypocrisy is the Same as Dissimulation? Some Wickedly Act Independently of the Bishop. Psalm 26 Isaiah 58:5-9 Here, Too, in Like Manner, when we Deny that Souls are the ... Letter Xli. St. Ambrose in this Letter to his Sister Continues the ... Whether Hypocrisy is Always a Mortal Sin? To the Bishops of Africa. On Corrupting the Word of God A Caution against Bigotry Thesaurus Dissemblers (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Dissemblers (1 Occurrence). Psalms 26:4 I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers. ... /d/dissemblers.htm - 6k Dissembler (1 Occurrence) Dissembles (1 Occurrence) Falsehood (107 Occurrences) Vain (141 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Dissemblers (1 Occurrence)Psalms 26:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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