99+ Bible Verses About Liars and Manipulators

The Bible teaches us about honesty and truth. It warns against lying and tricking others. Liars and manipulators can hurt people’s hearts. Reading these verses helps us see right from wrong. God values truth and faithfulness in everyone. These Bible verses guide us to live honestly every day.

Understanding these verses can protect us from deceit. They remind us to speak truthfully and act with integrity. By learning from God’s words, we can avoid manipulation. The Bible offers wisdom for life and relationships. Following its guidance brings peace and trust. Let’s explore these verses to strengthen our faith and morals.

Bible Verses About Liars and Manipulators

Warnings Against Lying

Proverbs 12:22 says that the Lord detests lying lips but delights in people who are truthful. It’s a reminder that honesty matters deeply in God’s eyes, and dishonesty grieves Him. When we choose to lie, we’re choosing to distance ourselves from God’s character.

Ephesians 4:25 tells us to put away falsehood and speak truthfully to our neighbors, because we are members of one body. Our lies don’t just hurt ourselves—they damage the body of Christ and break the trust that holds communities together.

Proverbs 19:5 warns that false witnesses will not go unpunished, and those who pour out lies will not escape judgment. This shows that God takes lying seriously and won’t let it slide forever, no matter how clever the liar thinks they are.

Colossians 3:9 encourages us not to lie to each other, since we’ve taken off the old self with its practices. When we become Christians, we’re supposed to shed the habit of deception like dirty clothes.

1 Peter 3:10 reminds us that whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. Life itself is better when we choose truth over lies.

Proverbs 6:16-19 lists seven things the Lord hates, and a lying tongue is right there on the list. God finds deceit so offensive that it makes the cut alongside hatred, murder, and pride.

2 Timothy 2:16 warns us to avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. Lies have a way of multiplying and pulling us deeper into darkness.

Psalm 52:3-4 describes how deceivers love evil more than good and falsehood more than speaking truth. It’s a portrait of someone who has chosen deception as their way of life.

Proverbs 10:18 says that whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool. We think we’re being clever when we hide our true feelings behind lies, but we’re actually revealing our foolishness.

John 8:44 tells us that the devil is a liar and the father of lies. When we lie, we’re actually imitating the devil’s character rather than God’s character.

God’s View on Deception

Revelation 21:8 lists liars among those who will have their place in the lake of fire. It’s a sobering reminder that God takes deceit seriously and that our choices have eternal consequences.

Proverbs 13:5 says the righteous hate what is false, but the wicked make themselves a stench and bring shame on themselves. When we lie, we’re aligning ourselves with everything that God opposes.

1 John 2:21 reminds us that we know the truth, and no lie comes from the truth. This suggests that lies are fundamentally opposed to the nature of God’s kingdom.

Proverbs 14:5 says that a faithful witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies. Character shows up in whether we can be trusted to tell the truth.

Psalm 101:7 shows that David made a commitment that no one who practices deceit would dwell in his house. Even in the Old Testament, people understood that deception has no place in the home of a righteous person.

Romans 12:17 tells us not to repay anyone evil for evil, but to be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. This means we don’t fight deception with more deception.

Proverbs 17:4 says that a wicked person listens to deceitful lips and a liar pays attention to a destructive tongue. We’re drawn to the kinds of people and messages that match our values.

2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 warns that the coming of lawlessness will be accompanied by all kinds of counterfeit miracles and signs, and people will be deceived because they refuse to love the truth. Deception thrives where truth isn’t valued.

Proverbs 19:9 says that a false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish. The psalmist keeps returning to this theme because it’s true—lies catch up with us eventually.

Titus 1:2 tells us that God does not lie. God’s nature is fundamentally truthful, and anything that contradicts His character is opposed to His will.

The Danger of Believing Liars

Proverbs 14:15 says that the simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. We’re called to be discerning and not gullible, especially when it comes to those who might deceive us.

2 Peter 2:1-3 warns about false prophets and teachers who will introduce destructive heresies, denying the sovereign Lord. Many will follow their shameful ways and the way of truth will be maligned.

1 John 4:1 tells us to test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. We need to develop the ability to recognize deception.

Proverbs 8:7 says that my mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. Truth and wickedness don’t go together, they’re fundamentally opposed.

Matthew 24:4-5 shows Jesus warning His disciples to watch out and not be deceived, because many will come in His name claiming to be the Messiah. Deception is one of the primary weapons used against believers.

2 Corinthians 11:13-14 describes false apostles who masquerade as apostles of Christ, and Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. Deceivers often hide behind respectable appearances.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 warns that some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Their consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.

Proverbs 29:12 says if a ruler listens to lies, all his officials become wicked. When leaders accept deception, it corrupts everyone under their influence.

2 John 1:7-8 warns about deceivers who have gone out into the world, and encourages readers to watch out that they do not lose what they have worked for. Deception can steal our spiritual progress.

Jeremiah 23:16 tells the people not to listen to what the prophets are prophesying, because they fill you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the Lord.

Manipulators and Their Tactics

Proverbs 20:17 says bread gained by deceit tastes sweet to a man, but later his mouth will be full of gravel. Manipulation might feel good in the moment, but it leads to bitterness eventually.

2 Timothy 3:13 warns that evil people and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. Manipulators keep sinking deeper into their schemes.

Proverbs 26:28 says a lying tongue hates those it harms, and a flattering mouth works ruin. Manipulators use flattery as a tool, but it destroys relationships and character.

Jude 1:4 describes certain people who have secretly slipped in among you, people who were designated for condemnation. They pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord.

2 Corinthians 11:26 speaks of Paul’s sufferings, including being in danger from false believers. He had to constantly watch out for people who claimed to believe but were actually working against the gospel.

Proverbs 26:23-26 compares a manipulative person to a coating of silver dross on earthenware, attractive on the outside but hiding something cheap underneath. Their true heart is revealed in conversation.

Psalm 12:2 says that everyone lies to their neighbors, and they flatter with their lips while harboring deception in their hearts. Manipulation often hides behind flattery.

1 Thessalonians 5:21 tells us to test everything and hold fast to what is good. We need to examine claims carefully rather than accepting everything at face value.

Proverbs 7:10-23 describes a seductive woman (representing any manipulator) who uses smooth talk and persuasive words to lead someone astray. Manipulation often works through appealing to our desires.

Matthew 23:25-28 shows Jesus exposing the Pharisees as hypocrites who clean the outside of the cup but the inside is full of greed and self-indulgence. Manipulators work hard on their image while neglecting their character.

Standing Against Deception

Ephesians 5:8-11 says we were once darkness but are now light in the Lord, and we should live as children of light. We’re called to expose darkness, not participate in it.

Proverbs 27:12 says the prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty. We’re supposed to be wise enough to avoid manipulators and deceivers.

1 John 1:6-7 tells us that if we claim to have fellowship with God yet walk in darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, we have fellowship with one another.

2 Corinthians 6:14-15 encourages us not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers, because light and darkness have no fellowship. We shouldn’t bind ourselves to people who live by lies.

Proverbs 22:3 says the prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it. Wisdom includes knowing when to distance yourself from deceivers.

1 Peter 1:13-16 tells us to be sober-minded, to set our hope fully on the grace to be brought to us at the revelation of Jesus Christ. We’re called to be holy in all we do.

Proverbs 27:5 says open rebuke is better than hidden love. Sometimes we need to confront deception directly rather than ignoring it.

2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us to take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. We fight deception by aligning our thinking with God’s truth.

Romans 16:17-18 warns us to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in the way of doctrine we’ve learned, and to keep away from them. Sometimes the loving thing to do is create distance.

Proverbs 14:12 says there is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. Just because something looks good doesn’t mean it is good.

Truth and Honesty

Proverbs 12:19 says truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. Truth has staying power while lies eventually collapse.

John 14:6 shows Jesus saying “I am the way and the truth and the life. Jesus is the foundation of all truth, and knowing Him means knowing truth.

Proverbs 23:23 says buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding. Truth is so valuable that it’s worth purchasing at the cost of other things.

1 John 3:18 tells us not to love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. Real love shows itself in honest, faithful actions.

Psalm 15:1-5 describes who may dwell in God’s sanctuary: the one whose walk is blameless, who speaks the truth from their heart, and who keeps their oath even when it hurts.

Proverbs 10:9 says whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out. Honesty gives us peace of mind.

2 John 1:3 says grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ will be with us in truth and love. Truth and grace go together.

Proverbs 28:13 says whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Honesty about our own failures opens the door to forgiveness.

3 John 1:3-4 shows the writer’s joy at hearing that his children are walking in the truth. There’s genuine joy in seeing people live honestly.

Proverbs 29:25 says fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. When we trust God, we don’t have to lie to protect ourselves.

Consequences of Lying

Proverbs 10:10 says whoever winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin. Our words and hidden meanings eventually catch up with us.

Proverbs 19:5 repeats that false witnesses will not go unpunished, and those who pour out lies will not escape judgment. God doesn’t let deception slide indefinitely.

Psalm 31:18 says let the lying lips be silenced for they speak arrogantly against the righteous with pride and contempt. Lies eventually lose their power.

Proverbs 26:2 says a curse without cause does not come to rest, like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow. Unfounded accusations and lies don’t stick.

Proverbs 5:22 says a man is trapped by his own sinfulness, the cords of his sin hold him fast. Lies create a trap that becomes harder to escape.

Isaiah 59:4 speaks of people who conceive trouble and give birth to evil, yet what they produce is nothing but lies. Deception breeds more deception.

Numbers 32:23 warns that you may be sure that your sin will find you out. Eventually, the truth comes to light.

Proverbs 28:1 says the wicked flee though no one pursues them, but the righteous are as bold as a lion. Guilt drives deceivers to run.

Hosea 7:1 shows that God sees all the evil in Samaria, and lies increase among the people. God’s vision encompasses all deception.

1 Peter 2:1 tells us to rid ourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. We’re called to actively remove these things from our lives.

Recognizing False Teachers

Titus 1:10-11 warns about rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, whose mouths must be silenced. They’re ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach.

2 Peter 2:17-19 describes false teachers as springs without water and mists driven by a storm, promising freedom while they themselves are slaves to depravity. They use empty promises to lure people.

1 Timothy 1:3-4 instructs Timothy to command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. False teachers often focus on irrelevant details.

2 Timothy 4:3-4 warns that the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine, and they’ll turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. People are sometimes eager to believe lies.

Matthew 7:15-16 says watch out for false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ferocious wolves. You can recognize them by their fruits.

Jeremiah 14:14 shows God saying to Jeremiah that the prophets are prophesying lies in His name. He did not send them, nor did He appoint them.

Acts 20:29-30 warns that after Paul is gone, savage wolves will come in among the flock, and even from among your own people some will distort the truth. Deception comes from both outside and inside.

1 John 2:26 tells us this is about those who are trying to lead us astray. Deceivers are actively working to mislead believers.

Proverbs 1:10-11 warns us to listen when sinners entice, saying come along with us, let’s waylay an innocent person. We need to recognize when we’re being manipulated into evil.

Matthew 24:11 warns that many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. In the last few days, deception will be widespread.

Protecting Yourself from Liars

Proverbs 22:5 says in the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. We protect ourselves by staying away from deceivers.

James 1:19 tells us to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. This helps us avoid being rushed into decisions by manipulators.

Proverbs 18:15 says the heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. We protect ourselves by seeking out knowledge and truth.

2 Corinthians 13:8 says we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. Truth is our greatest weapon against deception.

Proverbs 25:28 says like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control. We’re vulnerable to manipulation when we lack discipline.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 tells us to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances, while at the same time being careful to avoid the appearance of evil. Spiritual discipline protects us.

Proverbs 2:10-15 says when wisdom enters your heart and knowledge becomes pleasant to your soul, discretion will protect you and understanding will guard you. Education and wisdom are our best defense.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 lists various practices related to deception and divination that the Lord finds detestable. We’re called to reject practices based on falsehood.

Proverbs 19:27 says stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge. Continuing to learn helps us avoid deception.

Romans 10:17 says faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. Knowing God’s word protects us from deception.

Speaking Truth in Love

Ephesians 4:15 tells us to speak the truth in love, growing to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. Truth-telling should be motivated by love, not harshness.

Proverbs 27:12 says when the simple inherit folly, the prudent are crowned with knowledge. We grow by learning to discern truth from lies.

Zechariah 8:16 says these are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment. Truth and fair judgment go together.

Proverbs 22:17-19 says listen to the sayings of the wise, apply your heart to what I teach. Our willingness to receive truth makes us wise.

1 Thessalonians 1:5 reminds us that the gospel came to them not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. Truth has power because God backs it up.

Proverbs 15:7 says the lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright. Wise people share truth generously.

Colossians 1:5-6 speaks of the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for us in heaven, and this gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world. Truth produces growth and change.

Psalm 26:4-5 shows the psalmist refusing to sit with the deceitful and hating the assembly of evildoers. We’re called to separate ourselves from deception.

2 Timothy 2:2 tells us to entrust to faithful people everything you’ve heard from Paul so they may be qualified to teach others. Truth is meant to be passed along to others.

Proverbs 10:21 says the lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment. Our honest words actually nourish people spiritually.

Our Thoughts On What the Bible Says About Liars and Manipulators

The Bible speaks strongly against lies and manipulation. God is a God of truth, and anything that hides or twists the truth goes against His nature. Even small falsehoods can harm trust, damage relationships, and disrupt peace in families and communities. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture shows that deceit leads to consequences, while honesty brings blessing. God calls His people to live sincerely, to speak words that encourage rather than harm, and to act in ways that reflect His righteousness.

When we lie or manipulate, we not only hurt others but also separate ourselves from God’s truth. The Bible warns us that Satan is the “father of lies,” showing how dangerous deception truly is. Yet, even when we suffer because of someone’s dishonesty, God promises justice and healing at the right time. He sees every hurt, every false word, and every hidden motive. If you’ve been deceived or betrayed, remember that God’s truth will always triumph, and His light will reveal every lie.

If you’ve struggled with dishonesty or manipulation yourself, there is hope. God’s grace is greater than any mistake. When we repent and turn to Him, He forgives and changes our hearts. God calls us to be people of integrity, truthful in our words, pure in our motives, and faithful in our actions. Walking in truth may be challenging in a world filled with deceit, but it is the only path to true peace and freedom.

Let us aim to reflect Jesus Christ, who never lied, deceived, or manipulated. He spoke the truth even when it was difficult, setting a perfect example of honesty and purity. May our words and actions mirror His, bringing light into darkness and healing where there is pain. In a world clouded by falsehood, let us choose truth, guided by God’s Spirit and strengthened by His Word.

Say This Prayer

Father God, I thank You for being the God of truth and light. You know every thought, every intention, and every hidden word. I ask for Your protection from anyone who lies, deceives, or seeks to harm through manipulation. Keep me safe beneath Your mighty hand, and let Your truth shine brightly in every dark place.

Lord, teach me to speak words that heal and bring peace. Help me to live with honesty, even when it’s difficult. If there is any dishonesty, pride, or deceit in my heart, gently reveal it and cleanse me. I desire to live in a way that honors You and reflects Your love to others.

Give me discernment to recognize lies and courage to stand firm in Your truth. When others try to twist words or spread falsehoods, help me respond with grace, patience, and love. Fill my heart with peace, trusting that justice belongs to You alone.

Thank You, Lord, for guiding me in truth and surrounding me with Your protection. Help me walk each day in integrity, humility, and boldness. May my life always shine for Your glory.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Bible say about liars

The Bible warns that liars will face consequences, and honesty honors God (Proverbs 12:22).

Who is called the father of lies in the Bible

Satan is called the father of lies, showing how dangerous deceit truly is (John 8:44).

How should Christians deal with manipulators

The Bible encourages believers to stay wise, speak truth, and trust God for justice (Proverbs 22:3).

Are there Bible verses about honesty

Yes, the Bible repeatedly calls us to speak truthfully and live with integrity (Ephesians 4:25).

Can lying bring consequences according to Scripture

Yes, lies destroy trust and relationships and bring God’s discipline (Proverbs 19:5).

How can God help someone who struggles with lying

Through repentance and His grace, God can transform hearts and guide toward truth (1 John 1:9).

Does the Bible warn about deceitful people

Yes, Scripture warns that deceit leads to destruction and betrayal (Psalm 101:7).

What is God’s view on manipulation

Manipulation harms others and opposes God’s righteous ways; He calls us to sincerity and fairness (Proverbs 26:24-26).

How can we respond to liars biblically

We should respond with wisdom, patience, and trust in God’s justice, not revenge (Romans 12:17-19).

Are there examples of liars in the Bible

Yes, stories like Ananias and Sapphira show the dangers of lying and deceit (Acts 5:1-11).

Conclusion

The Bible teaches us that lying and manipulation hurt others and go against God’s will. Truth and honesty bring blessing, peace, and trust in every relationship. God calls His people to speak sincerely and act with integrity in all situations. Following His Word helps us avoid deceit and live rightly.

Even when others are dishonest, God sees every wrong and promises justice. By walking in truth and relying on His guidance, we reflect His love and light. Choosing honesty strengthens our hearts and protects our souls. May we always trust God and live with honesty every day.