The Lure of the Liar

Jeremiah 9:3-9

Introductory Thoughts

Lying is one of the most prevalent moral problems we face.

In their book “The Day America Told the Truth”, James Patterson & Peter

Kim reveal some startling statistics.

91% of Americans lie regularly.63% men & 52% woman have lied to

protect themselves.40% said they had lied on job

applications.

Introductory Thoughts

Jeremiah 9:3-9

Look at Judah’s lies & compare them to ours - God is not pleased!

We as Christians are not immune from the temptation.

Ephesians 4:25 - Philippians 4:8

What is Lying?

Root Idea: Falsehood & Deception.

To deceive, or attempt to deceive, by a lie - Matthew 28:13-15.

A lie is a false statement deliberately

presented as being true; something meant to deceive or give a wrong impression.

What is Lying?

In a broader sense: Whatever is NOT what it professes to be is a lie.

False impressions created to deceive

(sometimes harder to detect).

Self-righteousness – Matthew 23:27-28.Hypocrisy – 1 Tim. 4:1-2Precepts & doctrines of men – Romans

1:25.Religious lies – 2 Corinthians 11:13-15.

What is Lying?

Another type of subtle lie: Self-Deception – Galatians 6:3.

“I am without sin!” – 1 John 1:8“I know Him!” – 1 John 2:3-4

“I’m religious!” – James 1:26

We need a careful self-examination.

2 Corinthians 13:5 - Galatians 6:4.

Why Do People Lie?

Out of fear.

Matthew 26:69-74.

To shirk responsibility.

Luke 14:18

To hurt someone.

Colossians 3:8-9.

To get gain or gain an advantage.

For the “Greater Good”. (Usually means

what’s good for me!)

What is the Outcome for Liars?

God warns us not to lie.

1 Peter 3:10-11

Lying is disgusting to God.

Proverbs 6:16-17 – Proverbs 12:22

Therefore, He will punish all liars.

Proverbs 19:5, 9 - Revelation 21:8

Concluding Thoughts

The problem of the sin of lying is huge and no one is immune from its temptation.

Let us examine ourselves and be careful to be honest in all things.

Emphasize the value of truth by living honestly toward all men.