False Witness: Misleading Testimony

False witness is the act of knowingly giving wrong information to deceive or slander another's character, a practice explicitly forbidden in Scripture.

Understanding False Witness

This is knowingly giving wrong information, to deceive or slander another's character. "A truthful witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies" (Prov 14:5). Instead of deliberate lying, that discredits the integrity of others and destroys relationships the Bible states, "Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully…" (Eph 4:25). We are to speak the truth about our fellow man, not to produce in the mind of a third party a wrong attitude or belief.

Speaking or writing what is not true can take many forms: something false we invent and spread, repeating a dishonouring report, exaggerating, veiling or misrepresenting the truth because of fear or enlarging on the facts with the intention to impress others. All these are inaccurate representations.

Reasons for False Witness

People give false witness for various reasons: to gain advantage or avoid punishment, out of jealousy or resentment toward another, to protect themselves from consequences, or to manipulate situations for personal benefit. Some lie to cover their own wrongdoing, while others do so to damage the reputation of someone they dislike or view as competition. Fear of rejection, desire for approval, or pressure from others can also lead to false testimony. The root cause is often pride, selfishness, or a sinful heart that values personal gain over truth and integrity.

A good policy is to THINK before speaking:
   is it True?
will it Help?
   is it Inspiring?
  is it Necessary?
  is it Kind?

God's View of False Witness

Responding to False Witness

Jesus acknowledged that Christians may face false accusations and persecution, teaching them to love their enemies and pray for those who mistreat them (Mt 5:11, 5:44). Paul described such challenges as temporary compared to eternity (2 Cor 4:17). It's crucial to respond without letting hurt influence our words. Ask yourself: would I want this said about me? (Lk 6:31).

When we become the target of false reports, it can be tempting to retaliate or spread counter-accusations. However, Scripture warns against this response. Instead of returning evil for evil or insult for insult, we are called to bless those who mistreat us (1 Pet 3:9). Reciprocating with false reports only perpetuates the cycle of deception and dishonors God.

Choosing not to spread false reports about others, even when they have done so to us, demonstrates supernatural grace and trust in God's justice. "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord" (Rom 12:19). God sees all things and will bring truth to light in His perfect timing.

The path of righteousness involves refusing to participate in the spread of falsehood, regardless of provocation. By maintaining our integrity and speaking truthfully even when falsely accused, we bear witness to the transforming power of Christ in our lives and reflect His character to the world.

Reflection and Application:

• Consider how often you evaluate your words against the THINK principle before speaking.
• Reflect on whether you have ever contributed to spreading false information, even unintentionally.
• Examine your heart's attitude when speaking about others—are you motivated by truth or by other agendas?
• Pray for wisdom to speak truthfully and for grace when others speak falsely about you.

See also: commandments, deception, false, false teachers, gossip, honesty, lying, response, slander, tongue, truth, words.