Dictionary of Bible Themes  »  8000 The life of the believer  »  8200 The character of the believer  »  8275 honesty

Behaviour, in action and words, that aims to convey truth. This quality is an essential aspect of God's own nature and purposes, and is required of those whom he calls to be his people.

Honesty is integral to the gospel

The honesty of God

2 Samuel 7:28 See also Psalm 19:7; Psalm 33:4; Psalm 111:7; Psalm 119:142,151; Isaiah 45:19; Jeremiah 10:10; John 7:28; Romans 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 1:9; 1 John 5:20; Revelation 3:7; Revelation 15:2-3; Revelation 19:9

The honesty demanded of believers

Psalm 15:1-2; 2 Corinthians 4:2 See also Exodus 18:21

Dishonest dealing forbidden by God:

Leviticus 19:35-36; Deuteronomy 25:13-16 1 Kings 9:4-5; Proverbs 11:1; Ezekiel 45:10; Zechariah 8:16-17; John 4:23-24; Romans 1:18; 1 Corinthians 5:8

Paul commends truthful speech:

Ephesians 4:15,25 Philippians 4:8

Qualities essential in church leadership:

1 Timothy 3:8; Titus 1:7 Titus 2:7-8

The honesty of Jesus Christ

1 Peter 2:22 See also Matthew 22:16 pp Mark 12:14 Jesus Christ's opponents flattering Jesus Christ, but nevertheless speaking the truth.

Other examples of honest behaviour commended by Scripture

Jacob:

Genesis 30:33; Genesis 43:12 1 Samuel 12:3-5 Samuel; 1 Kings 17:24 Elijah; 1 Chronicles 29:17 David; Job 27:4 Job; Daniel 6:4 Daniel

Paul:

Acts 24:16; 2 Corinthians 1:12; Corinthians 2:17; Corinthians 4:2

The cost of honesty

Jeremiah 26:15 See also Proverbs 17:26; Proverbs 29:10,27; Isaiah 59:14-15; Amos 5:10; John 8:45-46; John 18:23; Galatians 4:16

See also

1065  God, holiness of
1075  God, justice of
1125  God, righteousness
1460  truth
5414  money, stewardship
5429  oaths
5546  speech
5587  trade
6145  deceit
8239  earnestness
8714  dishonesty
8767  hypocrisy