"Stephen, a man richly blessed by God and full of power, performed great miracles and wonders among the people.

But he was opposed by some men who were members of the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), which included Jews from Cyrene and Alexandria. They and other Jews from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia started arguing with Stephen. But the Spirit gave Stephen such wisdom that when he spoke, they could not refute him.

So they bribed some men to say, “We heard him speaking against Moses and against God!” In this way they stirred up the people, the elders, and the teachers of the Law. They seized Stephen and took him before the Council."

(Acts 6.8-12 GNB)

The history of mankind is filled with jealousy, bitterness, and selfishness which lead to lies and deceits. Many lives are destroyed because of these.

True, God could use such as Stephen's story for his purpose. But it is sad that anyone would want to "bribe" others to tell lies. Even in current times.

Do not lie. God always knows.

Related: Jealous, bitter, and selfish (2)