Topical Bible: Leasing: Falsifying

◄ Leasing: Falsifying ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the context of the Bible, the term "leasing" is an archaic word that refers to lying or deceit. It is primarily found in the King James Version and is synonymous with the act of falsifying or speaking falsehoods. The concept of leasing is addressed in various passages throughout Scripture, emphasizing the moral and spiritual implications of deceit.

Biblical References:

1. Psalm 4:2 : "How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods?" The term "leasing" in older translations is rendered as "delusions" or "falsehoods" in more contemporary versions. This verse highlights the human tendency to embrace falsehoods and the resulting dishonor to God.

2. Psalm 5:6 : "You destroy those who tell lies; the LORD abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man." Here, the psalmist underscores God's disdain for deceit, equating it with violence and bloodshed. The use of "leasing" in older texts aligns with the condemnation of lying and deceitful behavior.

3. Proverbs 12:22 : "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight." This proverb contrasts the abhorrence God has for falsehood with His pleasure in truthfulness and integrity. The act of leasing, or falsifying, is clearly depicted as contrary to God's nature and desires for His people.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, leasing, or falsifying, is not merely a social or ethical issue but a spiritual one. It is a violation of the Ninth Commandment, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16). This commandment underscores the importance of truth in maintaining justice and righteousness within the community of believers.

The New Testament further elaborates on the sin of lying. In John 8:44 , Jesus identifies Satan as "a liar and the father of lies," indicating that deceit is fundamentally opposed to the character of God, who is described as "the God of truth" (Isaiah 65:16). Believers are called to emulate God's truthfulness, as seen in Ephesians 4:25 : "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body."

Moral and Ethical Considerations:

The moral implications of leasing are significant. Deceit undermines trust, damages relationships, and disrupts the social fabric. In a biblical context, truth is foundational to justice and community life. The call to avoid leasing is a call to uphold truth, integrity, and transparency in all dealings.

The Bible consistently warns against the destructive nature of falsehood. In Revelation 21:8 , liars are listed among those who will face judgment: "But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death." This stark warning serves as a reminder of the eternal consequences of living a life characterized by deceit.

In summary, leasing, or falsifying, is a serious offense in biblical teaching, reflecting a heart that is not aligned with God's truth. The Scriptures call believers to reject falsehood and embrace a life of honesty and integrity, reflecting the character of God in their words and actions.

Nave's Topical Index

Psalm 4:2
O you sons of men, how long will you turn my glory into shame? how long will you love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.
Nave's Topical Index