Biblical Answer

The Problem of Lying

Lying is a problem because it denies the character of God who is truth (Heb 6:18) and whose word embodies truth (Jn 17:17). Jesus said, I am ... the truth (Jn 14:6), and there is nothing false in him. When we lie, we are bringing death into our lives, and the consequences of telling the truth have to be better than death. Even the punishment we receive from our parents or others is better than the consequences of lying.

The Consequences of Lying

Lying is a deadly sin because it invariably spawns worse evils. Liars are capable of any crime, so skilled are they at concealing their sins. Habitual lying removes any sense of moral boundaries. When someone is comfortable with lying, no moral principle is left intact. This can lead to a downward spiral of deception, where the liar feels the need to lie more and more to cover up previous lies. This can also lead to a loss of trust and relationships with others.

Breaking the Cycle of Deception

To break the cycle of deception, we need to create a situation where it is easy to speak openly and honestly. This means being truthful ourselves and setting a good example. It also means being willing to confront and address lies and deception when we see them. By doing so, we can help create a culture of honesty and integrity, where people feel comfortable speaking the truth without fear of judgment or punishment. This is not always easy, but it is essential for building trust and strong relationships with others. By being truthful and honest, we can break the cycle of deception and create a more authentic and transparent environment.