50 Bible Verses About Lying

Introduction to 50 Bible Verses About Lying

In the rich tapestry of biblical teachings, the theme of honesty versus deception is not only recurrent but also profoundly insightful. The bible verses about lying present a nuanced and multifaceted view of the nature of deceit, its impact on human relationships and spirituality, and the inherent value of truth. These scriptures do more than just condemn falsehood; they offer a deep understanding of why truthfulness is central to the moral and spiritual fabric of human life. 

Take, for instance, Proverbs 19:5: “A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not go free.” This verse is a vivid portrayal of the inevitable consequences that befall those who engage in deceit. It’s not just a warning of earthly repercussions but also a hint at the spiritual dissonance that lying creates. Similarly, 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,” emphasizes the interconnectedness of human relationships and how dishonesty can fracture this delicate balance. 

The bible verses about lying also explore the complexities and various forms deceit can take in our lives. They address not just the overt acts of lying but also subtler forms of deceit like hypocrisy, false pretenses, and misleading others. By doing so, these scriptures provide a comprehensive guide on maintaining integrity in thought, word, and deed. In essence, they call for an alignment of one’s outer expressions with inner truths, as echoed in Psalm 34:13: “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.” 

Moreover, these verses provide a mirror for self-reflection, encouraging believers to examine their own hearts and minds for traces of dishonesty. They remind us that deceit often starts within and then manifests outwardly, affecting our relationships, our character, and our standing before God. In this light, the verses serve not only as guidelines for behavior but also as tools for self-improvement and spiritual growth. 

In the broader context of biblical teachings, the emphasis on truth and honesty is closely linked to the character of God Himself. Scriptures like Proverbs 12:22, which states, “The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy,” reflect the divine preference for truth. This alignment with God’s nature is presented as an ideal to strive for, positioning honesty as a reflection of divine attributes. 

Finally, this collection of bible verses about lying serves as a moral compass in a world where truth can often be blurred or relative. They stand as timeless principles that offer clarity and direction, encouraging believers to navigate life’s challenges with honesty and integrity. In doing so, they not only guide individual behavior but also shape the ethical foundations of communities and societies. 

Consequences of Lying

In this selection, the Bible verses delve deeply into the repercussions that stem from dishonesty. They serve as stark reminders that lying is not just a minor moral misstep, but a significant transgression with serious consequences. These scriptures paint a vivid picture of the spiritual, emotional, and sometimes physical penalties that can arise from being untruthful. They are cautionary tales that warn us of the dangers of straying from the path of truth, emphasizing how lies can lead to personal downfall, alienate us from others, and damage our relationship with God. This collection of verses is particularly poignant in illustrating how short-term gains from deceit are overshadowed by long-term losses and suffering, urging believers to consider the eventual cost of dishonest actions. 

Proverbs 19:5

A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not go free. NIV

In Other Words: A witness who lies will not escape punishment, and one who tells falsehoods will not be free. 

One-Line Summary: False witnesses face punishment and cannot escape their lies. 

Proverbs 19:9

A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish. 

In Other Words: A deceptive witness won’t go unpunished, and the one who speaks lies shall meet their end. 

One-Line Summary: Liars will ultimately face destruction. 

Psalm 101:7

No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence. 

In Other Words: No one deceitful will live in my house; no liar will remain in my presence. 

One-Line Summary: Deceitful people are not tolerated in God’s presence. 

Proverbs 12:19

Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. 

In Other Words: Truthful words stand the test of time, but a lying tongue is only momentary. 

One-Line Summary: Truth lasts forever, but lies are temporary. 

Proverbs 17:20

One whose heart is corrupt does not prosper; one whose tongue is perverse falls into trouble. 

In Other Words: A person with a crooked heart won’t find success; a twisted tongue leads to downfall. 

One-Line Summary: A corrupt heart and deceitful speech lead to trouble. 

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. 

In Other Words: But for the cowardly, faithless, detestable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars—their destiny is the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death. 

One-Line Summary: Liars are grouped with other sinners facing eternal damnation. 

Proverbs 12:22

The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy. 

In Other Words: The LORD despises lying lips, but delights in those who are trustworthy. 

One-Line Summary: God detests lying but delights in truthfulness. 

Proverbs 13:5

The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked make themselves a stench and bring shame on themselves. 

In Other Words: The righteous detest falsehood, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace. 

One-Line Summary: Righteous people hate lies, while the wicked are shamed by them. 

Psalm 5:6

You destroy those who tell lies. The LORD detests bloodthirsty and deceitful people. 

In Other Words: You destroy those who speak lies. The LORD abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful. 

One-Line Summary: God destroys liars and abhors violence and deceit. 

Proverbs 25:18

Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is one who gives false testimony against a neighbor. 

In Other Words: Like a club, a sword, or a sharp arrow is the person who bears false witness against their neighbor. 

One-Line Summary: False testimony is as harmful as physical violence. 

Lying to Others

The verses in this listing specifically address the act of lying to others, underscoring the high value placed on truthfulness in interpersonal relationships. These passages highlight the moral imperative to avoid falsehood in our dealings with others, pointing out that honesty is foundational to trust and the smooth functioning of society. They caution against the temptation to deceive for personal advantage or to harm others, reminding us that such actions not only damage our relationships with people but also our integrity and character. This collection also reflects on the broader social and communal implications of lying, showing how individual acts of dishonesty can erode the fabric of trust and honesty that binds communities together. The emphasis is on cultivating a culture of truth and transparency, which is essential for healthy, thriving relationships and communities. 

Exodus 20:16

You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. NIV

In Other Words: You must not bear false testimony against your neighbor. 

One-Line Summary: Prohibits bearing false testimony against others. 

Leviticus 19:11

Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another. 

In Other Words: Do not steal, lie, or deceive one another. 

One-Line Summary: Commands against stealing, lying, and deceiving. 

Proverbs 24:28

Do not testify against your neighbor without cause—would you use your lips to mislead? 

In Other Words: Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause; do not deceive with your lips. 

One-Line Summary: Warns against lying about your neighbor. 

Colossians 3:9

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices. 

In Other Words: Stop lying to one another, having stripped off your old self with its practices. 

One-Line Summary: Christians should not lie to one another. 

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. 

In Other Words: Therefore, put away falsehood and speak the truth each to their neighbor, for we are members of one another. 

One-Line Summary: Encourages speaking truthfully to build community. 

Acts 5:3

Then Peter said, ‘Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land?’ 

In Other Words: Peter said, ‘Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the proceeds of the land?’ 

One-Line Summary: Lying to the Holy Spirit is equated with lying to God. 

Proverbs 26:28

A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin. 

In Other Words: A deceitful tongue despises its victims, and a flattering mouth causes ruin. 

One-Line Summary: Lies harm others and ultimately bring ruin. 

James 3:14

But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 

In Other Words: If you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not boast or deny the truth. 

One-Line Summary: Encourages honesty over envy and selfishness. 

Proverbs 14:25

A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful. 

In Other Words: A truthful witness rescues lives, but one who breathes out lies is deceitful. 

One-Line Summary: Truthful testimony saves lives, while lies are dangerous. 

Proverbs 20:17

Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel. 

In Other Words: Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel. 

One-Line Summary: Deceitful gain is ultimately unsatisfying. 

Being Honest in Speech

In this set of verses, the focus shifts to the positive aspects and virtues of honesty, especially in our speech. These scriptures advocate for a form of communication that is not just devoid of lies, but is actively imbued with truthfulness, integrity, and sincerity. They encourage us to use our words as tools for building up rather than tearing down, for healing rather than hurting. The verses in this category suggest that honest speech is a reflection of inner righteousness and a well-aligned moral compass. They encourage believers to consider the power of their words and to use this power wisely and kindly. This collection serves as a guide for how to communicate in a way that is pleasing to God, beneficial to others, and reflective of a heart committed to truth. 

Ephesians 4:15

Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 

In Other Words: But speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow into Christ, who is the head. 

One-Line Summary: Encourages truthful speech in a loving manner. 

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. 

In Other Words: These are the things you should do: Speak the truth to one another, and judge with truth and judgment that brings peace in your gates. 

One-Line Summary: Advises honesty and justice in community interactions. 

Proverbs 8:7

My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. 

In Other Words: For my mouth will speak truth, and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. 

One-Line Summary: Wisdom speaks truth and rejects wickedness. 

2 Corinthians 8:21

For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man. 

In Other Words: We aim to do what is honorable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man. 

One-Line Summary: Christians should act honorably before God and people. 

Proverbs 12:17

An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies. 

In Other Words: A witness of integrity speaks honestly, but a false witness utters deceit. 

One-Line Summary: Honest witnesses speak truth; liars spread deceit. 

Proverbs 16:13

Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value the one who speaks what is right. 

In Other Words: Righteous lips are the delight of a king; he loves one who speaks honestly. 

One-Line Summary: Kings, symbolizing authority, value honest speech. 

1 Peter 3:10

For, ‘Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.’ 

In Other Words: For, ‘Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let them keep their tongue from evil and their lips from speaking deceit.’ 

One-Line Summary: Speaking truth and avoiding evil brings love and good days. 

Proverbs 15:4

The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit. 

In Other Words: A healing tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. 

One-Line Summary: Gentle speech is life-giving, while perverse speech harms. 

Proverbs 24:26

An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips. 

In Other Words: An honest response is like a warm embrace. 

One-Line Summary: Honest answers are as pleasing as a friendly kiss. 

Proverbs 11:3

The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. 

In Other Words: The integrity of the upright guides them, but the treacherous are destroyed by their duplicity. 

One-Line Summary: Integrity leads the upright, while duplicity destroys the unfaithful. 

God’s View on Lying

This listing offers a profound exploration of how God views lying and deceit. The verses gathered here provide a clear and direct perspective from a divine viewpoint, emphasizing that lying is not only morally wrong but also fundamentally against God’s nature and teachings. These scriptures help to frame dishonesty as not just a social or personal issue, but a spiritual one. They remind us that God values truth and integrity, and expects His followers to emulate these virtues in their lives. This collection often highlights the stark contrast between God’s truthfulness and the nature of deceit, painting a clear picture of where lying stands in the moral landscape of divine principles. It’s a powerful reminder of the spiritual consequences of our actions and the importance of aligning our lives with God’s truth. 

Proverbs 6:16-17

There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood. 

In Other Words: Six things the LORD hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a tongue that lies, hands that shed innocent blood. 

One-Line Summary: God hates lying among other sinful behaviors.

John 8:44

You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a liar from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 

In Other Words: 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. 

One-Line Summary: The devil is characterized as the original liar. 

Leviticus 19:12

Do not swear falsely by my name and so profane the name of your God. I am the LORD. 

In Other Words: Do not swear falsely by my name, thereby profaning the name of your God. I am the LORD. 

One-Line Summary: Swearing falsely by God’s name is forbidden. 

Psalm 34:13

Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies. 

In Other Words: Guard your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. 

One-Line Summary: Instructs to avoid evil speech and deceit. 

Proverbs 30:8

Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. 

In Other Words: Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me. 

One-Line Summary: A prayer to avoid lies and live in moderation. 

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. 

In Other Words: I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it, and no lie is of the truth. 

One-Line Summary: Truth is fundamental to Christian teachings. 

Psalm 52:2

You who practice deceit, your tongue plots destruction; it is like a sharpened razor. 

In Other Words: Your tongue devises destruction, like a sharp razor, you worker of deceit. 

One-Line Summary: Deceitful tongues are destructive and evil. 

Proverbs 12:20

Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy. 

In Other Words: Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but those who plan peace have joy. 

One-Line Summary: Deceit breeds trouble, but promoting peace brings joy. 

Psalm 120:2

Save me, LORD, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues. 

In Other Words: Deliver me, O LORD, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue. 

One-Line Summary: A plea for deliverance from deceitful people. 

Psalm 31:18

Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous. 

In Other Words: Let the lying lips be mute, which speak insolently against the righteous in pride and contempt. 

One-Line Summary: A call for silencing boastful and deceitful liars. 

Avoiding Deception

The verses in this final collection are focused on steering clear of deceit in all its forms and embracing a life anchored in truth. They provide practical and spiritual guidance on how to live a life characterized by honesty, transparency, and integrity. This collection encourages vigilance against the subtleties of deception, both in our own hearts and in the world around us. It offers wisdom on how to discern truth, how to resist the temptation to deceive, and the importance of being truthful not only in our actions but in our thoughts and intentions as well. These scriptures serve as a roadmap for living a life that is not only free from lies but rich in truth. They underscore the peace, clarity, and alignment with divine will that comes from a commitment to living honestly and authentically. 

Matthew 5:37

All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. 

In Other Words: Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil. 

One-Line Summary: Encourages straightforward honesty in communication. 

Proverbs 10:9

Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out. 

In Other Words: One who walks in integrity walks securely, but one who makes his paths crooked will be found out. 

One-Line Summary: Integrity provides security; dishonesty leads to exposure. 

Proverbs 21:6

A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare. 

In Other Words: Gaining treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death. 

One-Line Summary: Wealth from lying is fleeting and dangerous. 

1 Timothy 1:10

For the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine. 

In Other Words: For the sexually immoral, homosexuals, slave traders, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine. 

One-Line Summary: Lying is grouped with other sinful behaviors.

Proverbs 23:23

Buy the truth and do not sell it—wisdom, instruction and insight as well. 

In Other Words: Purchase the truth and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding. 

One-Line Summary: Advises to value and retain truth and wisdom. 

2 Corinthians 4:2

Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 

In Other Words: But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God’s word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 

One-Line Summary: Rejects dishonesty in favor of clear truth. 

Proverbs 4:24

Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 

In Other Words: Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you. 

One-Line Summary: Avoid perverse and corrupt speech. 

Proverbs 22:21

Teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth, so that you bring back truthful reports to those you serve? 

In Other Words: Teaching you truth, good and reliable, so that you can provide a truthful report to those who send you. 

One-Line Summary: Encourages truthful and honest reporting. 

Ephesians 4:29

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 

In Other Words: Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. 

One-Line Summary: Speak only what is helpful and edifying. 

2 Timothy 2:15

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 

In Other Words: Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. 

One-Line Summary: Encourages diligent, truthful handling of God’s word. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the bible verses about lying collectively offer a profound and multifaceted perspective on the nature of truth and deceit. These scriptures do not merely provide a set of rules; they offer deep insights into the human condition, our relationship with God, and the moral fabric of society. They remind us that while the temptation to deceive might be a common human experience, the pursuit of truth is a noble and essential path. 

For instance, Proverbs 10:9 teaches us, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” This verse succinctly captures the peace and security that come with living a life of honesty, contrasted with the instability and risk inherent in deceit. Similarly, in Proverbs 21:6, we are warned, “A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.” This highlights the fleeting nature of gains made through dishonesty and the potential for serious consequences. 

The bible verses about lying also encourage introspection and personal growth. Verses like Proverbs 4:24, which advises, “Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips,” serve as personal reminders to guard not just our actions but also our words, ensuring they reflect our commitment to truth. Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 4:2, which states, “Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God,” reflects the higher standard to which we are called as bearers of truth. 

These bible verses about lying are timeless in their wisdom and relevance. They challenge us to live with integrity, speak with honesty, and reflect the truth in our actions and decisions. In doing so, we not only align ourselves with divine principles but also contribute to a more truthful, trustworthy, and spiritually enriched world. 

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lying Bible Verses

A Prayer Inspired by Lying Bible Verses

In the light of the wisdom imparted through the bible verses about lying, we turn to prayer as a means of seeking divine guidance and strength in our pursuit of truth and integrity. These verses remind us of the importance of honesty in our words and actions and the value of living a life aligned with truth. As we reflect on these teachings, let us approach this prayer with a heart open to transformation and a spirit willing to embrace the path of righteousness and sincerity.

Our Prayer Inspired by Our Selection of Bible Verses About Lying

Heavenly Father,

In the stillness of this moment, we come before You, seeking Your wisdom and grace. Your Word, illuminated through the scriptures, has shone a light on the shadows of deceit and guided us towards the path of truth. Lord, we acknowledge our shortcomings and the times we have faltered, giving in to the temptation of falsehood.

We are reminded through Proverbs 12:22, “The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy,” and so we aspire to be among those who speak with honesty and live with integrity. Forgive us, O God, for the times we have strayed from this path and guide our hearts back to You.

In the challenges we face daily, where truth often seems shrouded in shades of gray, grant us the clarity of vision and strength of character to uphold what is right. Just as Ephesians 4:25 teaches us to “put off falsehood and speak truthfully,” help us to embody this command in all our interactions and relationships.

We ask for Your guidance to navigate the complexities of our world with discernment and grace. May our words be a reflection of Your truth, and our actions a testament to Your love. In moments of uncertainty, remind us of the wisdom in Proverbs 10:9, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” Let this assurance anchor us in our commitment to honesty.

Lord, we pray for the courage to confront and cast away deceit, not just in our lives but in our communities and the world at large. Fill us with Your spirit of truth, that we may be beacons of Your light in a world often dimmed by falsehood.

In all that we do, let us honor You. May our words, thoughts, and actions align with Your will, and may the truth of Your Word guide us on the path of righteousness. We trust in Your unfailing love and grace to lead us, today and always.

In Your holy name, we pray,

Amen.