“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16, ESV).

The ninth commandment, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor,” is a divine mandate for truth and integrity, rooted in God’s character as the God of truth (Psalm 40:11, ESV). This command extends beyond courtroom lies to encompass gossip, slander, and misrepresentation in everyday life. Yet, the American church often overlooks this sin, reflecting a broader lack of obedience that weakens its witness. In an era of social media outrage, political division, and personal vendettas, bearing false witness has become alarmingly common among professing Christians, eroding trust and contradicting Christ’s call to love.

The Consequences of Bearing False Witness

Scripture emphasizes the gravity of this sin. Proverbs warns, “A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will perish” (Proverbs 19:9, ESV), underscoring its eternal stakes. Jesus ties obedience to love, saying, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35, ESV). False witness—whether through spreading rumors, exaggerating faults, or maligning others—violates this love, fracturing the body of Christ. Yet, many churches tolerate or even participate in such behavior, from whispered judgments in pews to online attacks disguised as “discernment.” This lack of obedience reveals a heart misaligned with God’s Word.

The American church’s failure to address this sin stems from a cultural obsession with self-justification and a diluted gospel that prioritizes personal rights over biblical holiness. Sermons rarely confront gossip or slander, leaving congregations ill-equipped to guard their tongues. James writes, “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless” (James 1:26, ESV). The result is a church where division thrives, reputations are destroyed, and the transformative power of Christ is obscured. Paul’s plea to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15, ESV) is ignored, replaced by a casual acceptance of falsehoods that damage relationships and dishonor God.

A Call to Action

This disobedience has dire consequences. A church that bears false witness loses its credibility, driving seekers away and grieving the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30, ESV). Restoration begins with repentance and a renewed commitment to truth. Pastors must preach the ninth commandment’s depth, teaching believers to reject gossip and pursue reconciliation. Christians must examine their speech, seeking forgiveness where they’ve wronged others, and rely on God’s grace to align their words with His will.

Reflect on your speech today. Have you borne false witness against a family member or neighbor—through gossip, slander, or half-truths? Confess this sin, seek reconciliation where possible, and pray for your church to embrace obedience in this area. Commit to speaking truth in love, honoring God with every word.

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