What does Proverbs 21:28 teach about the consequences of dishonesty? Text Under Study Proverbs 21:28: “A false witness will perish, but a man who listens will speak with insight.” The Fate of the False Witness • “Will perish” – God states outright that dishonesty carries a built-in death sentence. • Perishing can include: – Loss of credibility and reputation in this life. – Legal or social penalties that strip away influence and standing. – Ultimate judgment before God (Revelation 21:8 reminds that “all liars…will be consigned to the fiery lake”). • The verb is certain and final: lying testimony is not merely regrettable; it is fatal. The Blessing of the Attentive Truth-Teller • “A man who listens” – Someone who hears, heeds, and absorbs truth before speaking. • “Will speak with insight” – His words carry weight, clarity, and enduring value. • Scripture ties listening and truthful speech together (James 1:19; Proverbs 18:13). • Result: rather than fading away like the false witness, his voice continues to shape and edify. Supporting Scriptures on Dishonesty’s Consequences • Proverbs 19:5: “A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape.” • Psalm 101:7: “No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who tells lies shall stand in my presence.” • Exodus 20:16: “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” • Acts 5:1-11: Ananias and Sapphira illustrate immediate, severe judgment for lying to God. • Ephesians 4:25: “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor.” Takeaways for Daily Living • God treats dishonesty as lethal, not trivial—avoid every shade of false witness. • Cultivate a listening heart; truth spoken after careful hearing bears lasting fruit. • Integrity preserves life and influence; deceit guarantees ultimate ruin. • Align your speech with God’s character: truthful, insightful, and trustworthy. |
    |