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Originally Posted by satz  To give another example, the fact that there are exceptions from the command not to murder for self defense, war and capital punishment does not logically lead us to think that the principle must be extended to committing adultery in times of war or for self defense. I think the subject of lying can be treated in the same way. |
This is, IMO, not a good example because we have commands about war and capital punishment. The definition of "murder" in the 10 commandments therefore excludes them. "Murder," by the bible's definition, is not the same as "killing." The argument for lying (and by necessary inference, I believe, other sins) is an argument which is at best based on narrative and silence, and an exception cannot be established in the same way as capital punishment.
Narrative is of course not irrelevant, but due to the fact that so many commentators have disagreed with what seems to be the standard view in this thread, I would argue that God's approval of the actual lie is up for debate, and that her inclusion in the "hall of faith" may not have been because of the lie.
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Originally Posted by Blueridge Baptist The Lord told Samuel to tell Saul something other that the truth when he was going to anoint David king. He also sent lying spirits into the mouths of the prophets and will send people strong delusion so that some will believe a lie. |
This is also beside the point. When it comes down to it, God decrees all lying, and for that matter, all sin. Those prophets who brought strong delusion are not free from guilt because God decreed that they do so.