Week 1: Lying

October 30 & November 1, 2026

  • We lie to try to protect ourselves.

  • Ephesians 4:21-25

  • Lying is an indicator of something deeper.

  • Lying begins when we stop trusting God.

  • Genesis 3:1-10

  • Before sin they were completely known, but after sin, we are afraid of being known.

  • Genesis 3:11-13

  • Lies destroy the very things we try to protect.

  • Ephesians 4:25

  • You can’t experience the joy of being fully known if you’re pretending to be someone you are not.

  • John 8:31-36

  • Jesus didn’t come to save the person you’re pretending to be…He came to save you.

  • Homework:

  1. Be honest with yourself.

  2. Have the conversation you’ve been avoiding.

  3. Speak the truth in love.

[d]Group Questions

  1. Read Ephesians 4:21–25 | Living in the Truth of Our New Identity.
    Paul connects telling the truth with the new identity we've been given in Christ. What does this passage reveal about the work God does in us and how that changes the way we live?

  2. Read Genesis 2:25–3:13 | Lying Begins When We Stop Trusting God.
    The first lie wasn't really about a piece of fruit. It was about whether God could be trusted. How did the serpent's deception change Adam and Eve's view of God, and where do you recognize that same struggle to trust His character in your own life?

  3. Read John 8:31–36; 14:6 | Jesus Is the Truth That Sets Us Free.
    Jesus didn't come to save the person we're pretending to be. He came to save the real us. What do these passages reveal about the freedom Jesus offers? How much energy do you spend managing what others think about you, and how might trusting Jesus free you from that burden?

  4. Read Ephesians 4:15, 25 | Truth Builds Trust.
    What are you trying to protect with a lie instead of trusting the Lord with the truth? Is there a relationship where you've been trying to control what someone believes about you rather than communicating honestly?

Closing Prayer Prompt

Read Psalm 139:23–24
Ask God to search your heart and reveal where you've been hiding, pretending, or making excuses instead of trusting Him. As you're comfortable, share what He brings to mind and pray for one another to trust God's character, walk in His truth, and have the courage to be honest.

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