23 Bible Verses about Lying
Lying is a topic that has been addressed throughout scripture. Whether it’s a warning against deceit or an encouragement toward honesty, the Bible provides wisdom on how we should approach truthfulness in our lives. Here are 23 Bible verses that highlight the importance of honesty and the consequences of lying.
1. Proverbs 12:22
“The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.”
- This verse stresses that dishonesty is not only frowned upon but is also an affront to God.
2. Exodus 20:16
“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.”
- One of the Ten Commandments, this verse lays a clear foundation for honesty in our relationships with others.
3. Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood... a false witness who pours out lies...”
- This list shows how seriously God takes lying among other sinful behaviors.
4. Colossians 3:9-10
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self...”
- This verse encourages believers to embrace truthfulness as part of their new identity in Christ.
5. John 8:44
“When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
- Jesus speaks about the nature of the devil and the destructive power of lying.
6. Psalm 101:7
“No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who utters lies shall continue before my eyes.”
- This verse reflects the desire for purity and truthfulness in our lives.
7. Proverbs 19:5
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will perish.”
- The consequences of lying are made clear in this verse – dishonesty has repercussions.
8. Ephesians 4:25
“Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
- Honesty is essential for maintaining unity and community.
9. Zechariah 8:16
“These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts.”
- This verse urges us to prioritize honesty in our dealings and judgments.
10. Revelation 21:8
“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.”
- The severity of lying is highlighted here among other immoral actions.
11. Proverbs 21:6
“The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death.”
- This verse warns against the pursuit of gain through deceitful means.
12. 1 Peter 2:1
“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.”
- A call to remove deceit from our lives entirely.
13. Jeremiah 9:5
“They all lie to each other; they deceive each other and do not speak the truth.”
- A reminder of the brokenness of humanity and the prevalence of deceit.
14. Proverbs 26:28
“A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.”
- This verse highlights the harmful impact of lies on relationships.
15. Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”
- Simple and direct instruction to avoid deceit.
16. Matthew 12:36-37
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words, you will be condemned.”
- Emphasizes the importance of our words, including honesty.
17. 1 John 2:21
“I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth.”
- Suggests that truth is inherent to God’s nature.
18. Proverbs 30:8
“Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.”
- A prayer for honesty and simplicity in life.
19. Psalm 119:163
“I hate and detest falsehood but I love your law.”
- The psalmist’s aversion to lies and commitment to God's truth.
20. Titus 1:2
“In hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time.”
- A reminder of God’s nature as one who cannot lie.
21. James 3:14
“But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.”
- Encourages us to confront our own motives honestly rather than lie about them.
22. Proverbs 12:19
“Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.”
- A beautiful reminder of the enduring nature of truth.
23. Romans 3:13-14
“Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit. The poison of vipers is on their lips. Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.”
- Paul’s description of human nature emphasizes the severity of deceit.
Conclusion
The Bible repeatedly illustrates the significance of honesty and the dangers of lying. As we reflect on these verses, let’s be inspired to speak truth and live authentically in our daily lives. Choosing honesty not only honors God, but it enriches our relationships and fosters trust.