Topical Encyclopedia Treachery, often understood as betrayal or deceit, is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the moral and spiritual consequences of such actions. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that address the nature and impact of treachery, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and integrity.Old Testament References 1. Genesis 3:13 · The first act of treachery is seen in the Garden of Eden, where the serpent deceives Eve. This act of betrayal against God's command sets the stage for the fall of humanity: "Then the LORD God said to the woman, 'What is this you have done?' 'The serpent deceived me,' she replied, 'and I ate.'" 2. Judges 9:23 · God sends an evil spirit between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem, leading to treachery and conflict: "God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem, and they acted treacherously against Abimelech." 3. 2 Samuel 15:10-12 · Absalom's conspiracy against his father, King David, is a notable example of familial treachery: "Then Absalom sent spies throughout the tribes of Israel with this message: 'When you hear the sound of the horn, you are to say, "Absalom reigns in Hebron!"'" 4. Psalm 41:9 · David laments the betrayal by a close friend, a foreshadowing of Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus: "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." 5. Proverbs 11:6 · The consequences of treachery are contrasted with the deliverance of the righteous: "The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the treacherous are trapped by their own desires." New Testament References 1. Matthew 26:14-16 · Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver is one of the most infamous acts of treachery in the New Testament: "Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver." 2. Mark 14:44 · The act of betrayal is marked by a kiss, a symbol of false affection: "Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: 'The one I kiss is the man; arrest Him and lead Him away securely.'" 3. Luke 22:48 · Jesus directly addresses Judas's act of treachery: "But Jesus asked him, 'Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?'" 4. 2 Timothy 3:1-4 · Paul warns of the treacherous nature of people in the last days, highlighting the moral decline: "But understand this: In the last days, terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God." Moral and Spiritual Implications The Bible consistently portrays treachery as a grievous sin that disrupts relationships and communities. It is often associated with deceit, betrayal, and a lack of faithfulness. The consequences of treachery are severe, leading to personal downfall and divine judgment. The Scriptures call believers to a life of integrity, urging them to avoid deceit and to remain faithful to God and one another. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 9:8Their tongue is as an arrow shot out; it speaks deceit: one speaks peaceably to his neighbor with his mouth, but in heart he lays his wait. Nave's Topical Index Library Eusebius: Constantine. General Index. Concerning the Ministry. Discussion of the Subject of Permission Chapter xi That the Employing Of, and Associating with the Malignant Party ... The Old and New Testaments have Many Things in Common -- Far More ... Letter xxviii. To Flavian Commonly Called "The Tome. " Acts i. 12 From Abraham to Egypt. The Resurrection of Lazarus Resources Who was King Pekah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Hoshea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about bribery / giving or receiving a bribe? | GotQuestions.org Treachery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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