The Lying Tongue Proverbs 6:16-19

Introduction the paradox of lying’s acceptance widely recognized as immoral, yet also widely practiced and justified on the job, in the home, at school, in the community some lives are so built on lies they are a house of cards unfortunately, Christians are not immune to the temptation and dangers of lying (Eph. 4:25) yet as Christians, we should be aware of our alliances: are we with God, who cannot lie (Heb. 6:17-18), or with Satan, the father of lies (Jn. 8:44)

What is Considered a Lie? to promote or imply what is not true blatant lies (Mt. 28:13-15)(Jn. 8:44) half-truths (Gen. 20:1-12)(Gen. 3:4-5) you are withholding an important piece of information with the intent to deceive false impressions (Acts 5:1-4)(2 Cor. 11:12-14) also known as hypocrisy (Mt. 23:28) because one is, to some degree, attempting to live multiple lives as the tongue reflects the heart, the hypocrite will likely engage in blatant lies if put on the spot (Acts 5:7-9)

Motives & Justifications for Lying Is there any situation where lying would be an acceptable choice in God’s eyes? some obviously impure motives malice / harmful intent (Gen. 39:13-20) false witness (Prov. 19:5), slander (Col. 3:8-9) worldly / financial gain (Prov. 11:1) honor, position, recognition, escape consequences “spiritual gain” (Mt. 6:5) would like righteous reputation and worldly lifestyle

Motives & Justifications for Lying But what if...my boss instructs me to lie or lose my job? fear of consequences (Gen. 20:11) whether retaliation for refusing to lie or the suffering that comes as a result of truth, we should rather fear God and not man (Lk. 12:4-5)(Rev. 21:8) the perfect example of Christ (1 Pet. 2:21-23)

Motives & Justifications for Lying But what if…my mom tells me to tell the salesman that she is not home? “white” lies (Prov. 12:22) while these lies may seem insignificant, they train our hearts for more deceit and selfishness (2 Pet. 2:14) also, these lies are often employed to avoid conflict in a relationship, but a relationship that is maintained by dishonesty is unhealthy

Motives & Justifications for Lying But what if…I must lie to protect someone from wrongdoing? lying for the greater good (Josh. 2:1-6) Rahab is commended for her faith in receiving the spies and sending them out in peace (Heb. 11:31; James 2:25) NOT for lying, but did she have a choice? (1 Cor. 10:13) just because we must deal truthfully does not mean that we are under obligation to provide information to those who would use it unlawfully or unjustly (Mt. 27:11-14) (Prov. 12:22-23)

Conclusion the end of the liar is death (Rev. 21:8, 27) The truthful lip shall be established forever, But a lying tongue is but for a moment. (Prov. 12:19) the end of the liar is death (Rev. 21:8, 27) his life of maintaining the lies is misery as well truthfulness is needed for fellowship / peace with God, our families, and our brethren (1 Pet. 3:8-12), and even if we suffer for truth, we will be blessed (v.13-14)