TO TELL THE TRUTH

Matthew 5:33-37  (CSB)–  “Again, you have heard that it was said to our ancestors, You must not break your oath, but you must keep your oaths to the Lord. But I tell you, don’t take an oath at all: either by heaven, because it is God’s throne; or by the earth, because it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, because it is the city of the great King. Do not swear by your head, because you cannot make a single hair white or black. But let your ‘yes’ mean ‘yes,’ and your ‘no’ mean ‘no.’ Anything more than this is from the evil one.

When I was growing up, there was a TV show called “To Tell the Truth.” It was a type of game show. There was a panel of celebrities, and three people would come out and pretend to be a certain person. One really was that person, the other two impostors trying to fool the panel. It was all in fun, sometimes the panel guessed right, other times they were really fooled.

Our relationship with God is demonstrated by our relationship with others. Our attitude about others speaks about our inward relationship with the Father. Is this hard? Yes. But, it is not what I say that matters, it is what Jesus says. He has talked about murder, adultery, and divorce. Today consider that Jesus is emphasizing that we need “To Tell the Truth” at all times.

Again, he starts with the basic concept (5: 33) – The Law says, “You must carry out your vows made to the Lord.” If you make a pledge, you have to keep it. Bottom line. No other choice.

In His day, people would make promises by swearing an oath on some object. The object would determine if you needed to keep it or not. Swear by some objects and everyone knew you were bound to keep it. By other objects, well, maybe/maybe not.

Jesus went to the broadened concept (5: 34 – 37) – Jesus says, “Don’t make any vows.” A simple yes or no should suffice. What every you say should be your word. Don’t say anything you don’t mean. I’m glad that God says what He means and means what He says. And, as His citizens, we should be doing the same.

How is it in your life? Are you a man or woman of your word? Does that which comes out of your mouth show a person of integrity – or do others have to guess if you meant it or not? Only you can truly answer this. Look closely at your heart and mouth today. What do you find?