Topical Encyclopedia The topic of lying, particularly in relation to the people of Crete, is addressed in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle to Titus. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to Titus, who was overseeing the churches in Crete, makes a notable reference to the character of the Cretans. This reference is found in Titus 1:12-13 : "As one of their own prophets has said, 'Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.' This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sternly, so that they will be sound in the faith."Cultural Context Crete, an island in the Mediterranean, was known in antiquity for its mercantile and seafaring activities. The reputation of Cretans as liars is not only mentioned in the Bible but also reflected in ancient literature. The phrase "Cretan liar" became proverbial, and the Greek poet Epimenides, who is believed to be the "prophet" Paul refers to, famously stated that "Cretans are always liars." This cultural stereotype was so pervasive that it gave rise to the philosophical paradox known as the "Epimenides Paradox" or "Liar Paradox." Biblical Context In the context of Paul's letter, the mention of Cretans as liars serves a pastoral purpose. Paul is concerned with the moral and spiritual health of the Cretan church. The statement underscores the need for sound doctrine and ethical living among believers. Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders who are "blameless" and "holding firmly to the trustworthy message" (Titus 1:6-9) to counteract the negative influences and false teachings prevalent in Crete. Moral and Theological Implications From a moral standpoint, lying is consistently condemned in Scripture. It is contrary to the nature of God, who is described as a God of truth (Deuteronomy 32:4). The ninth commandment explicitly forbids bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). In the New Testament, believers are exhorted to "put away falsehood" and "speak truthfully" to one another (Ephesians 4:25). Theologically, the issue of lying among the Cretans highlights the transformative power of the Gospel. While the cultural reputation of Cretans was negative, the Gospel offers redemption and the possibility of a new identity in Christ. The call to rebuke and correct is not merely punitive but restorative, aiming to bring individuals into alignment with the truth of the Gospel and the character of Christ. Practical Application For contemporary believers, the reference to Cretans serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and truthfulness in the Christian life. It challenges Christians to examine their own lives for areas where falsehood may have taken root and to seek the Holy Spirit's help in cultivating honesty and transparency. The passage also underscores the responsibility of church leaders to uphold and teach sound doctrine, ensuring that the church remains a pillar of truth in a world often characterized by deception. In summary, the mention of Cretans as liars in the Bible serves as a cautionary note about the dangers of falsehood and the necessity of truth in the life of the believer and the church. Torrey's Topical Textbook Titus 1:12One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Titus i. 14-Dec Appendix. Pastoral and Personal Chapter x The Land and the People. Concerning the Unity of God . On the Article, I Believe in one God ... A Plea Regarding Christians by Athenagoras, the Athenian The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources What does the Bible say about lying? Is lying a sin? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God use a lying spirit to deceive Ahab? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the man of God and the lying prophet? | GotQuestions.org Lying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lying: A Characteristic of the Apostasy Lying: False Prophets Addicted To Lying: False Witnesses Addicted To Lying: Folly of Concealing Hatred By Lying: Leads to Love of Impure Conversation Lying: Often Accompanied by Gross Crimes Lying: Saints: Pray to be Preserved From Lying: Saints: Reject Those Who Practise Lying: Saints: Respect not Those Who Practise Lying: The Devil Excites Men To Lying: The Devil, the Father of Lying: The Evil of Rulers Hearkening To Lying: The Wicked: Addicted To, from Their Infancy Lying: The Wicked: Bring Forth Lying: The Wicked: Give Heed To Lying: The Wicked: Prepare Their Tongues For Lying: They Who are Guilty of, Shall be Cast Into Hell Lying: Vanity of Getting Riches By Related Terms |
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