It’s not uncommon to hear someone say the phrase, “I swear to G_d.” Others may make such oaths as, “I swear on my mother’s grave.” What does the Bible say about swearing oaths such as these?
Why Do People Swear Oaths?
Most of the time people who add such oaths into their conversations feel a need to do so to place added emphasis on the fact their statement should be believed.
Example: “I swear to you, it really happened.”
Say “Yes” or “No”
The Bible offers us two verses of Scripture that gives us a clear answer about swearing oaths.
(Mathew 5:34) But I tell you, do not swear an oath 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. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
(James 5:12) Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear–not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple “Yes” or “No.” Otherwise you will be condemned.
What’s The Reasoning?
Not just once, but twice we are told not to swear oaths. Instead of an oath we are instructed to simply say “Yes” or “No.” What’s the reasoning?
For a true Christian who lives the type of life in front of others that they should, a simple yes or no is all they will have to say to be believed. Christian’s certainly shouldn’t have to swear an oath to make others believe they are being honest and truthful with what they say. If you are a man or woman of your word, your simple yes or no statement will be believed because you will have a reputation for being honest. There will be no need for having to swear oaths.
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