Is a White Lie Wrong?

13/10/2025 9 min

Listen "Is a White Lie Wrong?"

Episode Synopsis

We've all told them - those small lies that seem to help rather than hurt. However, Pastor Heath Lambert explains why even "little white lies" violate the ninth commandment and why God takes all dishonesty seriously, regardless of its size.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction and book release (week two)1:25 - The question: Is a white lie wrong?2:04 - What makes a lie seem "white" or harmless2:26 - Common examples of white lies3:06 - Defining what a lie actually is3:53 - The ninth commandment (Exodus 20:16)4:40 - The story of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5)5:55 - The real issue: lying to God, not just people6:29 - Why the size of the lie doesn't matter7:02 - The relational pressure behind white lies7:29 - What's really dark in our hearts8:08 - Truth-telling alternatives to white lies9:08 - Final answer: All lies are wrongKey Topics Covered- The Nature of White Lies - Why "victimless" lies seem helpful but are still sinful- Biblical Definition of Lying - The difference between mistakes and intentional false reports- The Ninth Commandment - What "You shall not bear false witness" means for everyday life- Ananias and Sapphira's Fatal Mistake - Why God judged them so severely for their "small" lie- Lying to God, Not Just People - Understanding who we really sin against when we lie- Relational Pressure and Dishonesty - Why we tell white lies and what it reveals about our hearts- Truth-Telling Alternatives - Practical ways to handle difficult situations without lyingScripture ReferencesExodus 20:16 - The Ninth Commandment against false witnessActs 5:1-11 - The story of Ananias and SapphiraActs 5:4 - "You have not lied to men but to God"About The Ten Commandments BookHeath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" is now available. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family. Order now and download a free chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandmentsHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to [email protected]