What is the meaning of Proverbs 19:9? A false witness Proverbs 19:9 opens with a clear picture: “A false witness…” Someone who knowingly distorts the truth before others—whether in a courtroom, a conversation, or a social post. Scripture consistently treats this as a grave offense. • Exodus 20:16 names it in the Ten Commandments. • Deuteronomy 19:15-21 requires that those who testify falsely receive the penalty they hoped would fall on the innocent. • Proverbs 6:16-19 lists “a lying witness” among the seven things the Lord hates. God’s people are called to reflect His own truthfulness (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2), so the charge is personal as well as communal. will not go unpunished The verse immediately assures us of God’s response: consequences are certain. • Proverbs 11:21 declares, “Be sure of this: the wicked will not go unpunished.” • Galatians 6:7 warns, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap.” Justice may seem delayed, but it is never denied. That assurance encourages those wronged by deception and cautions anyone tempted to shade the truth. one who pours out lies The second phrase intensifies the picture: not a single lapse, but a steady flow—someone who makes lying a lifestyle. • Psalm 52:4 describes the tongue that “plots destruction; it is like a sharpened razor.” • John 8:44 traces habitual lying back to its spiritual source, “the father of lies.” Repetition hardens the heart; lies become easier, conscience quieter, relationships weaker. will perish The outcome escalates from “unpunished” to “perish.” God links chronic deceit to ruin—temporal and eternal. • Proverbs 21:28 notes, “A false witness will perish.” • Revelation 21:8 lists “all liars” among those consigned to the lake of fire. On earth, credibility evaporates, trust dies, reputations crumble. Ultimately, unrepented lying leads to separation from the God of truth (Psalm 101:7). summary Proverbs 19:9 speaks straight: God sees every distortion of truth. The false witness faces sure discipline; the chronic liar faces utter ruin. Because Scripture is true and trustworthy, we can—indeed must—speak truth, reflect our truthful God, and rest in His just handling of every lie. |
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