Lord’s Library editors answer the question “What does the Bible say about dishonesty?” with specific Bible references.
Have you ever asked yourself the question, “What does the Bible say about dishonesty?” If you have, you’re definitely not alone! And since the Bible helps Christians form a foundational understanding of important topics, it’s imperative that one know how Scripture describes dishonesty in different contexts.
The Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines dishonesty as “Want of probity, or integrity in principle; faithlessness; a disposition to cheat or defraud, or to deceive and betray; applied to persons.”
Lord’s Library editors thought it would be a helpful exercise to provide Biblical context. As a result, we compiled this short resource, which captures all notable mentions of the word dishonesty, as well as its other forms. If you’ve been wondering what the King James Bible says about dishonesty, scroll on for additional detail.
Note: If you want to know what the Bible says about dishonesty and 206 other important topics (to be exact), our editors recommend Spencer Smith’s Doctrine Matters: Bible Topic Guidebook.
What Does the Bible Say About Dishonesty?
Romans 16:17-18
“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.“
2 Corinthians 4:2
“But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.“
Proverbs 6:19
“A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”
Colossians 3:9-10
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:“
Exodus 20:16
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.“
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