How To Speak So As Not To Be Called A Liar
Ephesians 4:25
NIV
[25] Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.
A simple instruction but very difficult to obey and apply. This instruction holds the key to a fruitful social interaction among friends or brothers of the same family-church!
I’ve listened to many speak or say things only to be called liars, which is a strong derogatory term to describe a friend or a brother! But how did it get to that point? That is what this article intends to address.
We begin by asking what it means to speak “ falsely ?” It is to communicate or to speak, say things etc; without facts or evidence to support what one says. The opposite of this is to speak “ truthfully” A truthful statement is one based on facts.
To speak from assumptions, to exaggerate, to speculate, to conjecture etc are all part of what can be described as speaking falsely, simply because they are not facts!
Assumptions, exaggerations, speculations etc are personal commentaries; there is nothing wrong with them, everyone has the right to express their views on a matter or subject. What is wrong is to affirm them as the truth and they must be obeyed by all
In any case, to avoid being classified or labelled as a “liar” when you speak from any of the above-listed, it is highly recommended that you begin your statements/presentations etc, with a “disclaimer”.
A disclaimer stating that in” your considered view or opinion here is what you think” Let the audience know that what you are about to say is an assumption or deduction! This will help them know and understand your conclusions as “opinions”.
And indeed opinions they are and not a lie or falsehood because you’ve earlier issued a disclaimer.
It is important to note that there are all types of “ opinions !” We have “ learned/educated opinions “ “ unlearned/, emotional opinions” fanatical opinions “ exaggerated opinions, consistent/inconsistent opinions!
Just like how Paul labelled and cautioned against entertaining some questions; maybe we may have to apply the same to some “opinions” so we avoid entertaining /commenting on some forms /types of opinions! Read it;
2 Timothy 2
KJV
23+ But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
It is when you did not issue any disclaimer but spoke as if they were facts, when what you said is found later to be untrue that is when you are a liar, because you’ve spoken falsely!
If what you say, teach, etc are accepted as “ opinions “ when the real facts are known you can change your views or opinions without any difficulty! You’ll win the respect of your hearers. This is maturity but where despite the facts you still hold to your “ opinions “ and proclaim them to be true then you will be labelled a liar!
This, beloved is a “disease” that has afflicted the majority! They have taught things that are based on assumptions, opinions etc now, in the light of the facts and evidence they still hold and believe their “ opinions” to be true!
An unfortunate development!
What is wrong with admitting that something said/taught/believed etc in the past was wrong? One word describes such a stand or position; pride. And read ;
Proverbs 11
KJV
2+ When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.
Proverbs 16
KJV
18+ Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
Proverbs 18
KJV
12+ Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 29
KJV
23+ A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.
Beloved, when confronted with facts and indisputable evidence may we eat our humble pie. Facts are sacred, opinions are free. In matters of faith ( facts ) unity , in matters of opinion , liberty. This 18th century
Common sense approach to unity is still valid
Let each express and hold fast to his opinions, he must also allow others to do the same. None must impose his opinions on any unless he believes and shares in the same opinions!
Truth unites, opinions divide. Opt for the Truth so you can unite.
Ephesians 4:25
NIV
[25] Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.
My take.