Deception is a no-no according to the Bible. God’s view? He’s not a fan of deceit. So, if you want to know more about what the Bible says about deception, keep reading.
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What Does the Bible Say About Deception?
When it comes to deception, the Bible is pretty clear: It’s a big no-no. Deception, in simple terms, means lying, misleading, or tricking someone. And according to the Bible, it’s a sin.
In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the importance of truthfulness. In John 8:32, He says, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” This suggests that deception keeps us bound in untruths.
The Bible also teaches that lying is against God’s nature. In Numbers 23:19, it says, “God is not human, that he should lie.” So, if we’re trying to live in God’s image, lying and deception aren’t allowed.
Now, let’s dive deeper into what the Bible has to say about deception.
Bible Verses About Deception
- Proverbs 12:22 – “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” This verse makes it crystal clear that God doesn’t like deceitful talk.
- 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 the New Testament, Paul reminds us to be truthful in our interactions with others.
- Colossians 3:9 – “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.” Another reminder from Paul about leaving deceit behind as part of our old self.
- Proverbs 6:16-19 – “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood…” Lying is right up there on the list of things that God detests.
- Psalm 101:7 – “No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence.” This verse underscores that those who embrace deceit won’t find favor with God.
- Leviticus 19:11 – “Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.” A straightforward command from the Old Testament against deception.
- Proverbs 14:5 – “An honest witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.” This verse highlights the stark contrast between honesty and deception.
- 1 Peter 2:1-2 – “Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” Peter advises believers to steer clear of deceit as part of their spiritual growth.
- James 3:14 – “But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.” Deception often goes hand in hand with selfishness, which is cautioned against here.
- Matthew 15:18-19 – “But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them. For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.” Jesus reminds us that what we say reflects our inner selves, so deceitful words stem from a deceitful heart.
So, there you have it. Deception doesn’t align with God’s view, as the Bible clearly states. It’s a sin that’s best avoided if you want to live in accordance with the teachings of the Bible. If you’re interested in more insights about deception in the Bible, keep reading as we continue our exploration.