What Does the Bible Say About Honesty? With Scripture References

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Lord’s Library editors answer the question “What does the Bible say about honesty?” with specific Bible references.

Have you ever asked yourself the question “What does the Bible say about honesty?” If you have, you’re definitely not alone! And since the Bible helps Christians form a foundational understanding of important topics, it’s imperative that one know how Scripture describes honesty in different contexts. The Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines honesty as “an upright disposition; moral rectitude of heart; a disposition to conform to justice and correct moral principles, in all social transactions.”

Now armed with a basic definition of honesty, Lord’s Library editors thought it would be a helpful exercise to provide Biblical context. As a result, we compiled this short resource which captures all notable mentions of the word honesty, as well as its other forms. If you’ve been wondering what the King James Bible says about honesty, scroll on for additional detail.

Note: If you want to know what the Bible says about honesty and 206 other important topics (to be exact), our editors recommend Spencer Smith’s Doctrine Matters: Bible Topic Guidebook.

The Gospel

What Does the Bible Say About Honesty?


Acts 6:3

“Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.”

Romans 12:17

“Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.”

2 Corinthians 8:21

“Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.”

2 Corinthians 13:7

“Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.”

Philippians 4:8

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

1 Peter 2:12

“Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.”

Proverbs 6:16-19

“These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”

Proverbs 12:19

“The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.”

Proverbs 12:22

“Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.”

Proverbs 13:5

“A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.”


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Timothy Andrew
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Timothy Andrew

Timothy Andrew

Tim is the Founder of Lord's Library. He believes the Bible commands us to minister "as of the ability which God giveth" (1 Peter 4:11). Tim aspires to be as The Lord's mouth by "taking forth the precious from the vile" (Jeremiah 15:19) and witnessing The Gospel of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15: 1-4) to the whole world.

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