Topical Encyclopedia Lying, particularly in the form of bearing false witness, is a significant theme in the Bible, consistently condemned as a sin that disrupts the moral and social order established by God. The act of lying is not merely a personal failing but is often depicted as a deliberate and harmful act against others, society, and God Himself.Biblical Condemnation of Lying The Bible explicitly condemns lying and false witness in numerous passages. One of the most direct commandments against lying is found in the Ten Commandments: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16). This commandment underscores the importance of truthfulness in maintaining justice and trust within the community. Proverbs frequently addresses the issue of lying, highlighting the destructive nature of falsehoods. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists lying as one of the seven things the Lord detests: "There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil, a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers" . This passage emphasizes that lying is not only a sin but is grouped with other grievous acts that disrupt harmony and justice. Consequences of Lying The Bible warns of the consequences that befall those who engage in lying and false witness. In Proverbs 19:5, it is stated, "A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape" . This verse serves as a warning that divine justice will ultimately prevail against those who persist in deceit. The New Testament also addresses the issue of lying, particularly in the context of the early Christian community. In Acts 5:1-11, the account of Ananias and Sapphira illustrates the severe consequences of lying to the Holy Spirit. Their deceit regarding the sale of their property resulted in their immediate deaths, serving as a stark warning to the early church about the seriousness of lying. Lying as a Characteristic of the Wicked Lying is often associated with the wicked and those who oppose God. In Psalm 58:3, the psalmist describes the wicked as being estranged from birth, speaking lies from the womb. This depiction underscores the inherent nature of deceit in those who reject God's ways. Jesus Himself identifies lying as a characteristic of the devil, stating in John 8:44, "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out his desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies" . This association of lying with the devil highlights the spiritual dimension of deceit, portraying it as antithetical to the nature of God, who is truth. Call to Truthfulness The Bible calls believers to a life of truthfulness, reflecting the character of God. In Ephesians 4:25, Paul exhorts the church, "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 rooted in the understanding that truthfulness fosters unity and reflects the integrity of the Christian community. In conclusion, the Bible's teachings on lying and false witness are clear and unequivocal. Lying is condemned as a sin that not only harms individuals and communities but also stands in opposition to the nature of God. Believers are called to reject deceit and embrace truth, reflecting the character of God in their lives. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 14:5,25A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Letter Xciii. (AD 408. ) The Heavenly Race On his Sister Gorgonia. Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. Of the Navigation of King Agrippa to Rome, to Tiberius Caesar; and ... Colossians iii. 17 The Mystery The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... The Iranian Conquest Resources Should the Hebrew midwives be commended for lying? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God kill Ananias and Sapphira for lying? | GotQuestions.org Is it ever right to lie? | 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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