At first this command was likely meant for courtrooms. But it applies to everything we say or write down. All of our communication must be true, not false.

Psychologists have observed that we lie in various ways. Some of our lies seem relatively harmless, or even ­polite: “Yes, I’m working on that project; it’ll be done soon,” or “That outfit looks nice on you.” Or how about “It’s low-fat” (but high in sugar).

Today anything we post on the internet can be spread worldwide. This is a first in history. So it is profoundly important that Christians be known for truth-telling online.

Unfortunately, there is often little difference between the speech of Christians and non-Christians. Non-Christians and Christians alike have raised groundless conspiracy theories. They say hateful things about public figures. They delve into vats of moral swill. This should not be.

There is no place where a Christian should promote falsehood. If you think you are supporting a good cause while turning a blind eye to a few lies here and there, you are wrong. False is false, evil is evil, and wrong is wrong; the cause is not more important than truth. The end does not justify the means.

Our neighbors are made in the image of God, just like you and me. How can we claim to love our neighbors, as God commands, if we cut them down and lie about them?