Colossians 3:9 – “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul commands believers not to lie to each other. This isn’t just a general moral guideline-it’s a call for Christians to live in a way that reflects their new identity in Christ.

Lying is a sin that destroys trust and damages relationships. When people deceive one another, it creates division and breaks the unity that God desires for His people. Paul makes it clear that lying is part of the old life-the way people used to live before they were saved. Now that they belong to Christ, they are called to put away falsehood and live in truth.

The phrase “taken off your old self with its practices” refers to the transformation that happens when someone becomes a follower of Jesus. It’s like taking off dirty, worn-out clothes and putting on clean, new ones (which Paul will talk about in the next verses). Lying belongs to that old way of life, and Christians should have nothing to do with it.

Historical Context

In the Roman world, lying and deception were often used as tools for personal gain. People lied to protect themselves, gain influence, or manipulate others. Many religions at the time encouraged dishonesty, allowing people to deceive if it benefited them.

But Christianity was different. The early church was built on truth, honesty, and integrity. Jesus Himself said, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6), and He taught His followers to speak truthfully.

The Colossian believers had come out of a culture that accepted dishonesty as normal. Paul was reminding them that they couldn’t live that way anymore. As followers of Christ, they needed to be people of truth, both in their words and in their actions.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several key spiritual truths:

1. Truthfulness is part of the Christian life – Lying belongs to the old, sinful nature. Christians should be known for their honesty (Ephesians 4:25).
2. Being in Christ means a total life transformation – Salvation isn’t just about going to heaven; it’s about changing how we live now (2 Corinthians 5:17).
3. Lying damages unity in the church – A community built on deception will eventually collapse. Trust and honesty are essential for a healthy Christian life (Proverbs 12:22).
4. God is a God of truth – Since we are made in His image, we are called to reflect His nature (Titus 1:2).

Literary Analysis

Paul’s command “Do not lie” is direct and absolute. He doesn’t say “try not to lie” or “lie less often.” He makes it clear that lying has no place in a believer’s life.

The contrast between “old self” and “new self” is important. Paul is using an image of changing clothes to illustrate a deeper spiritual truth: When a person comes to Christ, they should put off their old way of living and put on new attitudes and behaviors.

This theme continues throughout Colossians 3. Paul is teaching that becoming a Christian means a radical change-not just in what we believe, but in how we act.

Biblical Cross-References

• 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.”
• Proverbs 12:22 – “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”
• John 8:44 – Jesus says that Satan is the “father of lies.” Lying is not just a bad habit-it is something that comes from the enemy.
• Revelation 21:8 – Those who love and practice falsehood are warned of judgment.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Lying is still a big problem in the world today. Many people lie to avoid consequences, make themselves look better, or gain an advantage. In business, politics, social media, and even personal relationships, dishonesty is everywhere.

But as followers of Christ, we are called to live differently.

• We should speak truthfully in all situations-even when it’s difficult.
• We should avoid gossip, exaggeration, and deception in our conversations.
• We should be honest in our business dealings, friendships, and daily interactions.

This doesn’t mean we have to be harsh or unkind. Speaking the truth should always be done with love and wisdom (Ephesians 4:15). But we should never compromise on honesty.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is rooted in truth. The Bible says, “God is not human, that he should lie” (Numbers 23:19). Everything He says is true, and He wants His people to be the same way.

Because God loves us, He calls us to honesty:

1. Lying leads to brokenness, but truth brings freedom – Jesus said, “The truth will set you free” (John 8:32).
2. Lying creates distance in relationships, but truth builds trust – A loving God wants us to have strong, honest relationships.
3. Lying dishonors God, but truth reflects His character – Since we are His children, we should act like Him.

God doesn’t just tell us to stop lying because it’s a rule. He calls us to be truthful because it’s part of becoming more like Him-and that is the greatest good for our lives.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the ultimate example of truth:

• Jesus is called “the truth” (John 14:6) – His entire life was built on honesty and integrity.
• Jesus never deceived anyone – Even when it was costly, He always spoke the truth.
• Jesus took the punishment for our dishonesty – Every lie we have ever told was placed on Him at the cross. Because of His sacrifice, we are forgiven and empowered to live in truth.

For a Christian, truthfulness is not just about morality-it’s about following Jesus. If He is the Truth, then we should reflect His truthfulness in everything we do.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever been tempted to lie to protect yourself or impress others? How does this verse challenge that mindset?
2. In what ways do dishonesty and deception hurt relationships?
3. How can you be more intentional about speaking truth in love?
4. Are there any areas in your life where you have not been completely honest? How can you make things right?
5. How does Jesus‘ example of truthfulness inspire you to live with integrity?

This verse is a powerful reminder that as Christians, we are different from the world. We are called to be people of truth-in our words, our actions, and our character. May we live in a way that reflects the honesty, purity, and integrity of Christ.