Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the family is considered a sacred institution ordained by God, serving as the foundational unit of society. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of maintaining purity, truth, and righteousness within the family structure. Deceivers and liars, therefore, pose a significant threat to the integrity and spiritual health of the family unit.Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently warns against deceit and lying, highlighting the destructive nature of these sins. Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight." This verse underscores God's abhorrence of deceit and His pleasure in truthfulness. The family, as a reflection of God's covenantal relationship with His people, is called to embody these divine attributes. Old Testament Examples The Old Testament provides several examples of the consequences of deceit within families. In Genesis 27, Jacob deceives his father Isaac to receive the blessing intended for his brother Esau. This act of deception leads to familial strife and separation, illustrating the discord that deceit can sow within a family. Similarly, in the account of Joseph and his brothers (Genesis 37), the brothers' deceit in selling Joseph into slavery and lying to their father Jacob about his fate results in years of familial pain and division. These narratives serve as cautionary tales, warning against the destructive power of deceit. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to emphasize the importance of truthfulness. In Ephesians 4:25, Paul exhorts believers, "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one another." This call to honesty is particularly pertinent within the family, where trust and unity are paramount. Jesus Himself identifies Satan as the "father of lies" (John 8:44), contrasting the nature of deceit with the truth that He embodies. Families are thus encouraged to align themselves with Christ, the embodiment of truth, and to reject the influence of deceit. Church Discipline and Family Integrity The early church practiced discipline to maintain purity within the community of believers. In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul addresses a case of immorality within the church, instructing the Corinthians to remove the unrepentant sinner from their midst. While this passage deals with a specific sin, the principle of removing persistent, unrepentant sinners to protect the community's integrity can be applied to families dealing with deceit. Practical Implications Families are encouraged to foster an environment where truth is valued and deceit is not tolerated. This may involve setting clear expectations for honesty, addressing deceitful behavior promptly, and seeking reconciliation and repentance. In cases where deceit persists and threatens the family's spiritual health, more drastic measures, such as separation, may be necessary to preserve the family's integrity. Conclusion The biblical mandate is clear: deceit and lying are antithetical to the values that should govern a family. By adhering to the principles of truth and righteousness, families can reflect the character of God and maintain the unity and purity that He desires. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 101:7He that works deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that tells lies shall not tarry in my sight. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Our Lord's Prayer for his People's Sanctification A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources What does the Bible say about family conflict? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a Family-Integrated Church, and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org Should there be hierarchy in the family? | GotQuestions.org Families: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Families: Deceivers and Liars should be Removed From Families: Good: Jailor of Philippi Families: Good: Lazarus of Bethany Families: Punishment of Irreligious Families: should be Duly Regulated Families: should be Taught the Scriptures Families: should Live in Mutual Forbearance Families: should Live in Unity Families: should Rejoice Together Before God Families: should Worship God Together Families: Warning Against Departing from God Related Terms |
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