LORD’S DAY 37
Q. 101. May we then swear religiously by the name of God?
A. Yes; either when the magistrates demand it of the subjects, or when necessity requires us thereby to confirm fidelity and truth to the glory of God and the safety of our neighbor;1 for such an oath is founded on God’s Word,2 and therefore was justly used by the saints both in the Old and New Testament.3 Yes; either when the magistrates demand it of the subjects, or when necessity requires us thereby to confirm fidelity and truth to the glory of God and the safety of our neighbor;1 for such an oath is founded on God’s Word,2 and therefore was justly used by the saints both in the Old and New Testament.3
- Ex. 22:11. Neh. 13:25.
- Deut. 6:13. Heb. 6:16.
- Gen. 21:24. Jos. 9:15, 19. 1 Sam. 24:22. 2 Cor. 1:23. Rom. 1:9.
Q. 102. May we also swear by saints or any other creatures?
A. No; for a lawful oath is calling upon God, as the only one who knows the heart, that He will bear witness to the truth, and punish me if I swear falsely;1 which honor is due to no creature.2 No; for a lawful oath is calling upon God, as the only one who knows the heart, that He will bear witness to the truth, and punish me if I swear falsely;1 which honor is due to no creature.2
- 2 Cor. 1:23.
- Mat. 5:34, 35.
LORD’S DAY 37
The Lawful Oath
1. May we swear religiously by the name of God?
Yes, either when the magistrates demand it of the subjects, or when necessity requires us by an oath to confirm fidelity and truth, to the glory of God and the safety of the neighbor.
2. Is swearing an oath founded on God’s Word?
We are instructed in Deuteronomy 6:13, “Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.”
3. Is there other proof that swearing religiously was approved of God?
It was justly used by the saints in the Old and New Testaments, and by God Himself when He blessed Abraham. Genesis 21:24; II Corinthians 1:23; Hebrews 6:16.
4. May we also swear by saints or any other creatures?
No, for a lawful oath is calling upon God as the only One who knows the heart. Psalm 94:11; 139:2.
5. What does God do as the Discerner of man’s heart?
He will bear witness to the truth, and punish a man if he swears falsely. II Corinthians 1:23.
6. How is God’s glory involved in the lawful oath?
By the proper use of the lawful oath we bring honor to God’s name, an honor due to no creature.