25 Bible Verses About Lying (With Commentary)

Many struggle with the temptation to tell falsehoods, big or small. The Bible offers numerous passages that address the topic of lying and its moral implications. This article will delve into scripture, guiding you toward understanding and overcoming dishonesty through divine wisdom.

Discover truth’s power—keep reading!

The Consequences of Lying

Proverbs 12:22

"Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight."

God hates lies. Proverbs 12:22 tells us that lying lips are something God really does not like at all. But when you tell the truth and keep your word, God is very happy with you. This teaches us to be honest in all we do.

Being truthful makes you someone God can trust. When we choose to be honest, we are walking a path that pleases Him. It’s a clear rule from the Bible: stay away from lies and be someone who is always reliable with their words.

Proverbs 19:9

"A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will perish."

Lies can hurt people and make God sad. Proverbs 19:9 tells us that a person who tells lies will get in trouble. If you keep lying, it’s like you’re inviting bad things to happen. It also says that if someone lies on purpose, they won’t escape the consequences.

This verse teaches us to be careful with our words and always tell the truth. Being honest is important because it helps us live good lives and keeps us from trouble.

Revelation 21:8

"But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death."

Revelation 21:8 makes it very clear that lying is a serious problem. It says liars will end up in the lake of fire. This is like saying, if you lie, you face big trouble after life on earth.

The same verse talks about other bad things like being scared and not believing in what is true. God groups lying with these because all are wrong.

Lies lead to really bad endings according to Revelation 21:8. People who make things up and trick others are in the same group as those who do even worse stuff. What this part of the Bible teaches us is simple: don’t lie or do bad things, because they can keep you from being where God wants you, which is far away from lakes of fire or any kind of hurt.

Psalm 101:7

"No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who utters lies shall continue before my eyes."

Psalm 101:7 makes it clear that lying and tricking others is very bad. If you do these things, you can’t be near God. This verse tells us to love honesty and stay far away from lies.

It teaches that being true and open is the best way to live. People who tell lies are not welcome in God’s home.

This Bible verse shows us how serious God is about telling the truth. In His eyes, lying hurts trust and friendship. He wants us to speak only what is real and right. Lying does not fit with a good life or with following God’s path.

So, we must choose our words carefully and make sure they match up with the truth.

Proverbs 26:28

"A lying tongue hates its victims, and a flattering mouth works ruin."

Proverbs 26:28 tells us that lies can hurt people. When someone uses lies, they show that they don’t care about the harm they do to others. Their words can break things apart and cause a lot of trouble.

Lies are like tools used by those who want to save themselves but end up hurting everyone else instead.

This verse says clearly how bad lying is. It warns us that when we flatter someone just to get what we want, we could be causing damage without even seeing it right away. The Bible tells us to stay away from such behavior because it goes against love and truth.

Lying as Sin

Ephesians 4:25

"Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another."

Ephesians 4:25 tells us to stop telling lies and start being truthful with our friends and everyone around us. Because we are all part of Christ’s body, when we lie to others, it’s like lying to ourselves.

We must live as God made us—new people who want the truth in their lives.

Truth is really important to God, so much that He wants it in everything we do. This verse helps us see how speaking honestly gives hope and helps fix what’s wrong in the world. It reminds Christians to act like they belong to God by giving up on lying and choosing honesty every day.

Colossians 3:9

"Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices."

Colossians 3:9 tells us not to lie to each other. This strong message comes because lies can break the trust and unity among people who believe in Jesus. The verse is clear and simple: Lying is always wrong.

Christians should speak the truth with one another, showing they are changed by Christ’s love and united as His family.

Lies hurt our friendships and our hearts. When we lie, we go against God’s way of living. Colossians 3:9 also reminds us that when we follow Jesus, we leave behind old habits like lying.

We choose a life filled with truth, righteousness, and holiness instead. This makes everyone stronger together in God’s family.

Proverbs 6:16-17

"There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,"

Proverbs 6:16-17 tells us that the Lord hates seven things, and one of those is a lying tongue. God sees lying as something very bad. It’s like saying lies make him feel sick. The Bible makes it clear that speaking truth is very important and lying is a big no-no.

This verse shows us how serious lying can be. When people lie, they’re doing something wicked and worthless. Instead, we should always try to tell the truth because that’s what God likes.

He wants us to stay away from lies and be honest in everything we say and do.

Leviticus 19:11

"You shall not steal; you shall not deal falsely; you shall not lie to one another."

Leviticus 19:11 tells us clearly, “You must not lie.” This direct command places lying in the same bad group as cheating and stealing. It’s like a big red stop sign for Christians on the road of life.

God links these actions together because they all hurt people and break trust.

The Bible treats lies seriously. Leviticus 19:11 is straight-up about it—no messing around with half-truths or little white lies. Lying goes against truth, which is a core part of following God’s path.

For everyone who values honesty, this verse serves as a firm guidepost to always speak what is true.

John 8:44

"You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies."

John 8:44 tells us about the devil, who is called the father of lies. If someone lies, they are acting like children of the devil. The verse warns us not to follow Satan’s way of tricking people.

Lying is not part of God’s truth and comes from evil desires.

This Bible verse helps us see how important it is to stay with the truth and avoid lies. It teaches that lying is one of Satan’s main tools to fight against people. We should always try our best to be honest and live by what is true, just like God wants for us.

Truth as a Christian Virtue

Zechariah 8:16

"These are the things that you shall do: Speak the truth to one another; render in your gates judgments that are true and make for peace;"

Zechariah 8:16 tells us to speak the truth with our neighbors. It says don’t lie or trick people. This verse is important because it shows that being honest in how we act with others is a big deal to God.

We need to make sure what we say in court is true too, since fairness and doing right are key themes in the Bible. God hates lies, like Proverbs says, so this verse really pushes us to be truthful people.

Ephesians 4:15

"Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ,"

Ephesians 4:15 tells us to speak the truth with love. This means we must be honest but also kind. It’s important for Christians to grow up and act maturely, like Christ did. Love helps when we share things that might be hard to hear.

Telling the truth in love is not only what Jesus wants from us; it builds trust and strengthens friendships. We can help each other by being gentle and caring when we say what’s true.

It shows God’s way of living, which always includes love and honesty together.

3 John 1:4

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."

Nothing makes me happier than knowing my children live in truth. This line from 3 John 1:4 shows how important truth is for a Christian life. It’s like when parents see their kids doing the right thing, they feel proud.

God feels the same way about us.

We must walk in truth just as we have been taught by Jesus. He called Himself “the way and the truth.” So when we tell the truth, it’s like we are following His steps closely. And that brings joy not only to ourselves but also to our heavenly Father who loves honesty and goodness.

Proverbs 12:19

"Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment."

Proverbs 12:19 tells us that truth stands the test of time, but lies last only a moment. Think of it like building with strong or weak bricks. Truth is like strong bricks that make a sturdy house.

Lies are like weak bricks that break easily. We want to build our lives with truth, so they are strong and last long. Being honest makes good things come your way, just as God promises.

1 Peter 3:10

"For 'Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;"

1 Peter 3:10 tells us to keep away from evil talk and lies if we want to live a good life. It says we should not say mean or false things. This verse teaches us it’s important to speak nicely and tell the truth.

Talking bad about others, lying, and saying things that are not true can hurt people.

This message is like a guide for how we should use our words. The verse wants us to speak in ways that are kind and honest. It reminds us God loves when we use words that help, not harm.

Our words have power, so this part of the Bible helps us choose them wisely.

God’s View on Lying

Proverbs 6:19

"A false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers."

Proverbs 6:19 warns us that God hates it when someone tells lies or makes trouble between friends. In the Bible, lying is like a big no-no. It’s just as bad as hurting someone with your hands or words.

When you lie, you’re not doing what God wants, and it messes up trust with others. It’s important to tell the truth because that’s how we show love for each other and live in a good way, just like God says.

We should always try our best to be honest and keep away from lying so we don’t hurt people or make God sad.

Psalm 5:6

"You destroy those who speak lies; the Lord abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man."

God does not like lies or liars. In Psalm 5:6, it is clear that the Lord hates people who tell lies and do bad things. He says He will destroy those who speak untruths. This verse warns us to stay away from lying because God loves honesty.

It tells us that when we lie, we are far from what God wants for us. We must try hard to speak truthfully every day because this pleases Him and helps us live a good life.

Proverbs 13:5

"A righteous man hates falsehood, but a wicked man acts shamefully and disgracefully."

People who do what’s right hate lies. They know telling lies brings shame. Good people are honest and stay far away from faking the truth. God loves when we tell the truth. We should hate lying too because it makes us unfaithful and bad in God’s sight.

Lying is not just something to avoid, it’s something that good folks really don’t like at all. It shows a clean heart to run away from every lie and speak only what is true all the time.

Honesty shines bright before God, but lying brings dark shadows over our lives.

John 8:32

"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

John 8:32 tells us that truth is key to freedom. Jesus shows us the way to be truly free by knowing the truth. We find peace when we leave lies behind and follow what is true. This verse teaches us how important honesty is in our lives.

Knowing the truth changes everything, as this promise from Christ assures us. It’s not just about facts; it’s about living free from deception. John 8:32 invites everyone to live by truth and enjoy the freedom it brings.

This verse is a cornerstone for faith, showing that truth matters deeply to God and to us.

Exodus 20:16

"You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor."

Exodus 20:16 tells us not to lie about others. This rule comes from the Ten Commandments and is very important. God gave these rules to show us how to live right and be fair to each other.

If we follow this command, we show that we love truth just like God does.

Lying can hurt people and make problems in our communities. When the Bible says not to give false witness against our neighbors, it means we should always speak truthfully, especially when what we say affects their lives.

We need to choose our words carefully so that they are honest and kind.

Avoiding Deceit and Embracing Honesty

James 3:14

"But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth."

James 3:14 tells us to watch our hearts. It says not to let bad feelings like bitter jealousy or wanting only what’s best for ourselves take over. If we do, we might pretend to be wise, but that’s not real wisdom.

Real wisdom doesn’t brag or twist the truth.

This verse teaches us about being humble and true. It warns teachers and all of us about lying to seem smart or better than others. God wants us to choose honesty instead of letting jealousy make us say things that aren’t true.

We should try hard to be kind and honest with everyone.

1 John 2:21

"I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth."

1 John 2:21 tells us no lie comes from the truth. This is important because it helps us see that truth and lies do not mix. When we know something is true, we can be sure it’s not a lie.

This verse reminds us to choose our words carefully and always speak honestly. God wants us to live in a way that shows His truth in our lives.

The Bible teaches that lying is wrong, and this verse helps Christians understand why. It says you know the truth already, which means you can tell what is false. Lies have no place where there’s truth, so keep away from them! Think about your words before you say them; make sure they line up with the true things God has shown you.

Proverbs 11:3

"The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them."

Proverbs 11:3 tells us that honesty leads good people to do right. It says if you are honest, you will be safe. But if you lie and cheat, you will get in trouble. This verse shows us how important it is to live with honor and trustworthiness.

People who follow these good ways find guidance in their lives. On the other hand, liars hurt themselves without knowing it. They think they might win by being sneaky, but in the end, they lose everything that matters.

The word “integrity” means being whole and true to yourself. In Proverbs 11:3, this idea of integrity is like a tool that helps people stay on a good path. Everyone must choose between lying or telling the truth, cheating or playing fair.

This choice can protect them from bad things or lead them to ruin their own lives. Money doesn’t count for much when we face God’s judgment; what really lasts is living an honest life filled with integrity.

2 Corinthians 8:21

"For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man."

2 Corinthians 8:21 tells us to care about being good not just before God but also in front of other people. It’s like saying we should play fair and be kind, so no one can say we did something wrong.

Paul wrote this to show he lived by what was right and true. He wanted a clear heart with God and a good name with others. We must try hard for this too – to be honest and do things that make everyone, including God, think well of us.

This way, no one gets the wrong idea about what we’re up to or thinks we are lying or tricking them.

Psalm 34:13

"Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit."

Psalm 34:13 tells us to keep our words good. It says not to let lies or mean talk come out of our mouths. This message is clear: speak truth and stay away from saying things that are false.

We must watch what we say and choose honest words.

The Bible teaches that being honest is very important. Psalm 34:13 joins other parts of the Bible in telling us this. It asks us to live by strong morals, using words that bring good, not harm.

Conclusion

The Bible tells us lying is wrong. God hates lies because they hurt people and break trust. He wants us to tell the truth and live honest lives. When we choose honesty, we follow God’s way.

Let’s try every day to be truthful in what we say and do.

FAQs

1. What does the Bible say about lying?

The Bible has verses that say lying is wrong. In Proverbs 6:16-19, it lists lies as something God hates. It teaches us to be honest and stay away from telling lies.

2. Are there stories in the Bible where people lied?

Yes, there are stories like when the serpent tricked Eve in the Garden of Eden with lies or when Jacob deceived his father Isaac. These tales teach us about truth and consequences.

3. Do New Testament verses talk about lying?

In the New Testament, Jesus tells us to speak truthfully in Matthew 5:37, and Acts 5:3-4 warns against lying to God. The Apostle Paul also speaks against dishonesty because followers of Christ should show honesty.

4. Can you be forgiven for lying according to the Bible?

Yes, if you truly feel sorry for your sins and ask for forgiveness, God is merciful. Through Jesus’ teachings we learn that we can find mercy even after we’ve done wrong like lie.

5. Why is being truthful important according to Scripture?

Being truthful keeps us close to God’s promise of eternal life because He values honesty greatly; John 14:6 says Jesus is “the way and the truth.” Truth helps keep our hearts clean before Him.

6.Will liars face judgment according to biblical teaching?

The Bible mentions a final judgment where all deeds will be examined by our Creator including hypocrisy and lies.In fact,the fear created by this day encourages one always choose good over evil.