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The Devil’s Native Language

April 10, 2026 | David Jeremiah

You belong to your father, the devil ... He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar, and the father of lies.
John 8:44, NIV

It is estimated that there are more than seven thousand languages in use today. Among all of these languages there is one named language you will not find: Liar.

Recommended Reading:
John 8:31-32

Yet Jesus identified Liar as the language native to Satan. Some modern English translations of Jesus’ words say that lies are consistent with Satan’s character or his nature. The New International Version says that lies are his “native language”—the language with which a person is most comfortable and conversant; perhaps the language they grew up speaking and use most often. When it comes to Satan, Jesus said that he has been a murderer and a liar “from the beginning,” probably referring to the Garden of Eden. He lied to Adam and Eve about God’s instructions because “there is no truth in him.”

If you find yourself denying or doubting the Word of God, consider where those thoughts may be coming from.

There is no form of sin in which we act more satanically than when we indulge in telling a lie.
Frank Gaebelein