Lying is a serious issue in the Bible. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, God's Word makes it clear: dishonesty is sin. God desires truth in every part of our lives—our hearts, our words, and our actions. Let’s look at what the Bible says about lying, why it matters, and what it means for Christians today.
God Hates Lying
The Bible doesn’t soften the truth about lying. In fact, lying is listed as one of the things God hates.
Proverbs 6:16-17 (KJV) says:
"These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue..."
Lying is grouped with other serious sins like murder and sowing discord. That tells us it’s not a small issue.
The Ninth Commandment
God’s law includes a clear command not to lie. It's written in the Ten Commandments.
Exodus 20:16 (ESV):
"You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor."
This command speaks directly to telling lies, especially those that harm others. Truthfulness is essential to justice and relationships.
Satan Is the Father of Lies
Lying doesn't come from God—it comes from the enemy. Jesus said this clearly when speaking to the religious leaders who rejected Him.
John 8:44 (NIV):
"You belong to your father, the devil... When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies."
Satan uses lies to deceive, destroy, and divide. When we lie, we’re acting more like the enemy than like Christ.
God Desires Truth in the Heart
God wants His people to live in truth—not just speak it, but to love it deep within.
Psalm 51:6 (NLT):
"But you desire honesty from the womb, teaching me wisdom even there."
Truthfulness starts in the heart. When we value honesty, our words and actions follow.
Lies Break Relationships
Lying damages trust. In friendships, marriages, churches, and families, lies separate people from one another.
Proverbs 12:22 (ESV):
"Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight."
God delights in truth. When we are honest, we reflect His character and build stronger relationships.
All Liars Will Be Judged
Lying has eternal consequences. In Revelation, liars are included with other sinful groups who will face judgment.
Revelation 21:8 (KJV):
"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable... and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone..."
This verse doesn’t mean that one lie sends someone to hell. But unrepentant lying—a life of dishonesty—shows a heart not changed by God.
God Offers Forgiveness for Lies
Even though lying is serious, God offers mercy. If we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive.
1 John 1:9 (ESV):
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
God can change a lying heart into a truthful one. Through Jesus, we are made new.
We’re Called to Speak the Truth in Love
As followers of Christ, we are told not just to avoid lies but to speak truth—especially with kindness and care.
Ephesians 4:25 (NIV):
"Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body."
Speaking truth helps us live in unity. Lies tear down, but truth builds up.
Examples of Lying in the Bible
| Person | Lie Told | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Ananias & Sapphira | Lied about giving all their money (Acts 5) | They were struck dead for lying to the Holy Spirit |
| Abraham | Lied about Sarah being his sister (Gen 12) | Pharaoh rebuked him; God still showed mercy |
| Jacob | Lied to Isaac to steal blessing (Gen 27) | Led to years of family conflict and separation |
A Simple Rule for Honesty
Jesus gave us a simple instruction about how to speak:
Matthew 5:37 (NIV):
"All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one."
We don't need to swear or exaggerate to prove we're telling the truth. Just be honest.
Quick Summary Table
| Topic | What the Bible Says |
|---|---|
| God's view on lying | He hates it (Proverbs 6:16-17) |
| Commandment against lying | Do not bear false witness (Exodus 20:16) |
| Lying comes from Satan | Father of lies (John 8:44) |
| God wants honesty | Truth in the heart (Psalm 51:6) |
| Lying has consequences | Judgment awaits liars (Revelation 21:8) |
| Hope through Jesus | Forgiveness is possible (1 John 1:9) |
| Christian life standard | Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:25) |
