Speak the Truth in Love: Understanding the Ninth Commandment
In today’s world, truth often feels like a shifting concept. Misinformation spreads rapidly, words are twisted to serve personal agendas, and reputations can be ruined with a single rumor. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard—one that values truth, integrity, and love in all our words. This is at the heart of the Ninth Commandment: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour" (Exodus 20:16). While this commandment specifically addresses false testimony in court, its implications reach far beyond the courtroom into every aspect of life.
The Many Faces of Falsehood
Twisting Words
Word twisting occurs when someone distorts what another person has said, often to manipulate the situation. For example:
- You say, “I don’t feel like going out tonight.”
- The other person responds, “Oh, so what you’re really saying is you don’t like me anymore.”
This misrepresentation can lead to unnecessary conflict and misunderstanding. Proverbs 19:5 warns that "a false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape."
Gossip and Slander
Gossip involves spreading information about someone—whether true or not—that damages their reputation. Slander takes this a step further by deliberately spreading falsehoods to harm another person. Both are destructive and contrary to the love we are called to show. Psalm 15:1-3 describes the righteous person as one who "does not slander with his tongue and does no evil to his neighbour."
Rash Judgment and Speaking Without Evidence
Condemning someone without giving them a chance to explain themselves is another form of false witness. Proverbs 19:9 emphasizes that "a false witness will not go unpunished." We must be careful not to make hasty assumptions without proper knowledge and understanding.
The Devil’s Work: The Root of Lies
Lies and deceit are the very tools of the devil. Jesus warns in John 8:44 that Satan "is a liar and the father of lies." From the very beginning, in Genesis 3:1-4, the serpent deceived Eve, twisting God’s words to lead her into sin.
God, on the other hand, is the essence of truth. Isaiah 65:16 calls him "the God of truth," and Revelation 1:5 describes Jesus as "the faithful witness." As believers, our new nature in Christ compels us to reflect God’s character (Ephesians 4:22-25).
Why God Hates Lies
God detests falsehood for several reasons:
- Lying aligns with the devil’s character (Genesis 3:1-4; John 8:44).
- It conflicts with God’s nature, as he is the God of truth (Isaiah 65:16; Revelation 1:5, 3:14).
- It contradicts the new nature believers have in Christ (Ephesians 4:22-25).
- It damages human relationships and reputations (Ephesians 4:25).
The Positive Side of the Ninth Commandment
Instead of just avoiding lies, we are called to actively love the truth. Ephesians 4:15 urges us to "speak the truth in love," while 1 Peter 3:8-9 encourages believers to "be compassionate and humble." Truth should be spoken not as a weapon to hurt others but as a means to build them up in love.
The Question of the "Lie of Necessity"
Are there situations where lying is justified? The Bible provides examples where deception was used in extreme circumstances:
- The Hebrew midwives protected Israelite babies from Pharaoh (Exodus 1:15-21).
- Rahab hid the Israelite spies (Joshua 2:4-6, 18; Hebrews 11:31; James 2:25).
- The women of Bahurim misled King Saul’s men to protect David (2 Samuel 17:19-20).
These situations raise ethical questions. While truthfulness is the norm, some argue that deception may be permissible in dire situations—such as protecting innocent lives during war or preventing a murderer from finding his victim.
The Power of the Tongue
James 3 provides a sobering reminder of the tongue’s power. It is "a small member, yet it boasts of great things" (James 3:5). Like a fire, words can destroy lives, but when used rightly, they can bring healing and encouragement.
Conclusion: Speak Truth with Love
The Ninth Commandment calls us to be people of integrity, speaking truth with love and discernment. Let us reflect God’s character by valuing truth, avoiding deception, and using our words to build up rather than tear down. In doing so, we honour God and strengthen the relationships around us.
**Based a lesson given to the Karen Zoom community.
