Lies and Honesty, Gossip and Slander

Why the focus?

Proverbs 12:17–22 ESV

Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit. There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment. Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but those who plan peace have joy. No ill befalls the righteous, but the wicked are filled with trouble. Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.

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Proverbs 14:25 ESV

A truthful witness saves lives, but one who breathes out lies is deceitful.

Proverbs 19:5 ESV

A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape.

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Gossip

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Proverbs 11:13 ESV

Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.

Proverbs 16:28 ESV

A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.

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Proverbs 18:8 ESV

The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body.

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Proverbs 20:19 ESV

Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.

Integrity

Proverbs 21:6 ESV

The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death.