What Does the Bible Say About Lying?
Key Scriptures and spiritual guidance on lying
The Bible addresses lying in many places, consistently condemning it as a sin. In Proverbs, it is written that the Lord detests lying lips, while in the Ten Commandments, God commands us not to bear false witness against our neighbor. The Bible teaches that lying is ultimately rooted in the deception of the evil one and goes against the nature of God, who is the epitome of truth and honesty. Honesty and integrity are valued virtues in the Bible, and Christians are called to speak truthfully and live in a way that reflects the truth of God.
Bible Verses About Lying
Proverbs 12:22
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”
Exodus 20:16
“You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.”
Colossians 3:9
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.”
Proverbs 13:5
“The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked make themselves a stench and bring shame on themselves.”
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.”
Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue...”
Leviticus 19:11
“Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”
Go Deeper
Chat with Moses, David, or Paul about Lying
The Bible Pics app lets you have a real conversation with biblical figures — ask them anything about lying and get answers rooted in Scripture.
