Topical Encyclopedia Lying, defined as the act of intentionally deceiving others by stating falsehoods, is consistently condemned throughout the Scriptures. The Bible presents truth as a fundamental attribute of God's character, and as such, followers of Christ are called to embody truthfulness in their lives. Lying is not only a sin against God but also a breach of trust within the community of believers.Biblical Condemnation of Lying The Bible explicitly condemns lying in numerous passages. Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight." This verse highlights the stark contrast between deceit and faithfulness, underscoring God's disdain for falsehood. Similarly, in the New Testament, Colossians 3:9-10 instructs believers, "Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices, and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." The Call to Reject Those Who Practise Lying The call for saints to reject those who practice lying is rooted in the desire to maintain the purity and integrity of the Christian community. In Ephesians 4:25, Paul exhorts believers, "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body." This directive emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in fostering unity and trust among believers. Furthermore, the apostle John provides a stern warning in Revelation 21:8, where he lists liars among those who will face judgment: "But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death." This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal consequences of unrepentant deceit. Practical Implications for Believers The rejection of those who practice lying is not merely a passive stance but involves active discernment and accountability within the church. In 1 Corinthians 5:11, Paul advises the Corinthian church, "But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such a person." This instruction extends to those who persist in deceitful behavior, urging believers to distance themselves from such individuals to preserve the sanctity of the church. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ, as the embodiment of truth, serves as the ultimate example for believers. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." His life and teachings consistently reflect the importance of truth, and His followers are called to emulate His example by rejecting falsehood in all its forms. In summary, the biblical mandate for saints to reject those who practice lying is rooted in the call to uphold truth and integrity within the body of Christ. By adhering to this standard, believers not only honor God but also strengthen the bonds of trust and unity within the church. 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 Treatise on the Priesthood. Book iii. Chapter i. Peaceable Principles and True: Or, a Brief Answer to Mr. D'Anver's ... Answer to the Objection of the Heathen, that it was not Right to ... The Form of Sound Words Letter Lxxv. (AD 404. ) Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... The Treatise Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200 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 |