What does the Bible say about lying?

Answer  
  

The Bible is clear that lying is a sin and is displeasing to God. The first sin in this world involved a lie told to Eve. The Ten Commandments given to Moses includes: “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16\).  
  

In the early church, Ananias and Sapphira lied regarding a donation in order to make themselves look more generous than they really were. Peter’s rebuke is stern: “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?” (Acts 5:3\). God’s judgment was sterner: the couple died as a result of their sin of lying (Acts 5:1–11\).  
  

Colossians 3:9 says, “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.” Lying is listed in 1 Timothy 1:9\-11 as something practiced by the lawless. Furthermore, liars will be among those judged in the end (Revelation 21:8\). In contrast, God never lies (Titus 1:2\). He is the source of truth. “It is impossible for God to lie” (Numbers 23:19\).  
  

Jesus called Himself the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6\), and He expects those who follow Him to be people of truth. The truth is to be expressed in love (Ephesians 4:15\), offering hope to those seeking redemption from the lies of the world.  
  

For an explanation of the instances in the Bible in which lying appears to be acceptable, please see our "[Is it ever right to lie?](right-to-lie.html)" article.  
  

