The term "doubletongued" is derived from the Greek word "dilogos," which appears in the New Testament and is translated as "double-tongued" or "deceitful." This term is primarily used to describe a person who is insincere or speaks with duplicity, saying one thing to one person and something different to another, often with the intent to deceive or manipulate.

Biblical Reference:

The concept of being doubletongued is explicitly mentioned in the New Testament in the context of church leadership. In 1 Timothy 3:8, the Apostle Paul provides qualifications for deacons, stating: "Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain" . Here, being doubletongued is listed alongside other disqualifying behaviors, emphasizing the importance of integrity and honesty in those who serve in church leadership roles.

Theological Significance:

In the biblical context, being doubletongued is considered a serious moral failing. It reflects a lack of integrity and truthfulness, which are essential qualities for anyone in a position of trust, especially within the church. The Bible consistently upholds truth as a fundamental virtue, and deceit is often associated with the influence of evil. Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight" . This underscores the biblical view that God values honesty and transparency.

Moral and Ethical Implications:

From a moral and ethical standpoint, being doubletongued is seen as a violation of the commandment against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). It undermines trust and can lead to discord and division within a community. James 3:10-11 warns against the inconsistency of speech, saying, "Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and bitter water flow from the same spring?" . This passage highlights the expectation for consistency and sincerity in speech.

Practical Application:

For Christians, the admonition against being doubletongued serves as a call to cultivate honesty and integrity in all interactions. It encourages believers to be consistent in their words and actions, reflecting the character of Christ, who is described as "the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6). In practical terms, this means avoiding gossip, slander, and any form of speech that could be considered deceitful or manipulative.

In summary, the biblical concept of being doubletongued is a warning against duplicity and deceit, urging believers to uphold truth and integrity in their speech and conduct, particularly those in leadership positions within the church.

1 Timothy iii. 10-Aug
... paul the apostle to the thessalonians. Homily XI. 1 Timothy iii. 8-10. 1 Timothy
iii.8-10 "Likewise must the Deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given much ...
/.../homily xi 1 timothy iii.htm

Doubletongued (1 Occurrence)
...Doubletongued (1 Occurrence). 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave,
not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (KJV). ...
/d/doubletongued.htm - 6k

Lucre (5 Occurrences)
... 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given
to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (KJV ASV WBS YLT). ...
/l/lucre.htm - 9k

Filthy (22 Occurrences)
... 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given
to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (KJV ASV WBS YLT). ...
/f/filthy.htm - 16k

Double-tongued (1 Occurrence)
Double-tongued. Doubletongued, Double-tongued. Doubling . Noah Webster's
Dictionary ... Doubletongued, Double-tongued. Doubling . Reference Bible.
/d/double-tongued.htm - 6k

Doubles (1 Occurrence)

/d/doubles.htm - 6k

Deacons (5 Occurrences)
... 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to
much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (KJV WEY ASV BBE WBS NAS RSV NIV). ...
/d/deacons.htm - 7k

Grave (128 Occurrences)
... 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given
to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (KJV ASV DBY WBS YLT). ...
/g/grave.htm - 37k

Likewise (149 Occurrences)
... 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given
to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (KJV WBS NAS RSV NIV). ...
/l/likewise.htm - 35k

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