What Does the Bible Say About Lying — Meaning Explained

Scripture is unequivocal about lying. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists 'a lying tongue' and 'a false witness that speaketh lies' among the seven things God hates. The ninth commandment forbids bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). God Himself cannot lie (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18), and Satan is called 'the father of lies' (John 8:44). Lying takes many forms in Scripture: deception, false testimony, flattery, broken promises, and hypocrisy. Ananias and Sapphira died for lying to the Holy Spirit about their offering (Acts 5:1-11). The consequences of lying include broken trust, damaged relationships, a seared conscience, and divine judgment. Revelation 21:8 includes liars among those who face the second death. Positively, believers are called to 'speak every man truth with his neighbour' (Ephesians 4:25) and to let their 'yea be yea; and nay, nay' (James 5:12). Truthfulness is a mark of the Spirit-filled life.