Forbidden Words – Lying
It’s a sin to lie. The Bible doesn’t whitewash it. Colossians 3:9 says, “Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds.” The Bible does not permit lying, whether the occasional lie of convenience, or the so-called “white” lie. God does not want us avoiding dealing with the truth. Ephesians 4:25 says, “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another.”
What does “we are members of one another” mean? It means that we are connected through Jesus, and Jesus doesn’t lie. So, there is no reason for us to lie to one another. If one’s relationship with Christ is weak, he may not be able to tolerate hearing the truth. However, if one’s relationship with Christ is strong, he will insist on being told the truth. One who loves Jesus will say, “Don’t lie to me. Give it to me straight regardless of how difficult it may be.” Why this attitude? He knows that real change can only take place in his life when others tell the truth. A life based on lies is no way to live. Sooner or later the lies will catch up to him and hit him like a runaway freight train. He may learn the truth too late. It is better if one learns the truth by listening to Jesus.
What about the person who wants to believe in lies? Consider 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 says, “And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” Eternal condemnation awaits those who love living in lies (Revelation 21:8). Do not lie; tell the truth.
God bless you, and I love you.
Kevin Cauley