What does Proverbs 26:28 mean?

Scripture condemns both lies and flattery (Proverbs 6:16–19; 12:22; 29:5). Hateful people often spread lies about those they hope to destroy (Proverbs 26:24–26). Deceptive people may try to catch their victims off guard by praising them, giving insincere compliments. These tactics result in disaster, both for the victim and for those who lie (Proverbs 26:27). This not only condemns such actions but teaches that it's good to avoid those who participate in them.

Earlier verses connected malicious lying with hatred (Proverbs 26:24). Lying about someone using accusations is an obvious assault on their character or conduct. Flattery is a less obvious assault. Saying positive things, or using exaggerated praise, can be highly effective. It typically makes the intended victim unsuspecting. Jesus' enemies lied about Him, hoping to have Him executed. In the end, Jesus triumphed by rising from the grave. Someday, all who hated and fought against Jesus will come to ruin. Acts 17:31 promises that God "has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man [Jesus] whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead."