Topical Bible: Swearing Falsely: Blessedness of Abstaining From

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Swearing falsely, or making oaths and promises without the intention of keeping them, is a sin that is addressed multiple times throughout the Bible. The act of swearing falsely is not only a violation of trust between individuals but also an affront to God, who is the ultimate witness to all promises and oaths. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of truthfulness and integrity, highlighting the blessedness of abstaining from false oaths.

Biblical Prohibition and Consequences

The Bible explicitly prohibits swearing falsely, as seen in the Ten Commandments: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16). This commandment underscores the importance of truthfulness in all interactions. Leviticus 19:12 further warns, "You must not swear falsely by My name and so profane the name of your God. I am the LORD" . Here, the act of swearing falsely is directly linked to profaning God's holy name, indicating the seriousness of such an offense.

The consequences of swearing falsely are severe. In Zechariah 5:3-4, a curse is pronounced upon those who swear falsely: "This is the curse that is going out over the face of all the earth: 'Everyone who steals will be removed according to the writing on one side, and everyone who swears falsely will be removed according to the writing on the other side. I will send it out,' declares the LORD of Hosts, 'and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of him who swears falsely by My name. It will remain inside his house and destroy it, along with its timbers and stones'" . This passage illustrates the divine judgment that befalls those who engage in deceitful oaths.

The Call to Truthfulness

The Bible calls believers to a life of truthfulness and integrity, emphasizing the blessedness of abstaining from false oaths. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one" (Matthew 5:34-37). This teaching encourages believers to speak truthfully without resorting to oaths, highlighting the integrity that should characterize a follower of Christ.

James reiterates this principle, stating, "Above all, my brothers, do not swear, not by heaven or earth or by any other oath. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No,' so that you will not fall under judgment" (James 5:12). The emphasis on straightforward and honest communication reflects the blessedness of living a life free from deceit and falsehood.

Blessedness of Abstaining

The blessedness of abstaining from swearing falsely is evident in the peace and integrity that accompany a truthful life. Psalm 15:1-2 describes the character of those who dwell in the Lord's presence: "O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? He who walks with integrity and practices righteousness, who speaks the truth from his heart" . The psalmist highlights the intimate relationship with God that is enjoyed by those who live with integrity and truthfulness.

Furthermore, Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight" . The delight of the Lord in those who are faithful and truthful underscores the spiritual blessings that come from abstaining from false oaths.

In summary, the Bible consistently teaches the importance of truthfulness and the blessedness of abstaining from swearing falsely. By living a life of integrity and honesty, believers not only honor God but also experience the peace and joy that come from a clear conscience and a trustworthy reputation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 24:4,5
He that has clean hands, and a pure heart; who has not lifted up his soul to vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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Exposition of the Moral Law.
... grievously offended with those who swear by strange gods, and construes such swearing
as a ... It is no slight insult to swear by him and do it falsely: hence in ...
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