Template:Swearing

What is the difference between Swearing and Affirmations and Vows?

Oaths and Swearing

“But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.” Matthew 15:18

Much of the persecution of Christians is due to the fact that they would not take an oath of allegiance and supremacy. This was also true of the Israelites.

“If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.” (Nu 30:2)

When men gave their Allegiance and oath of Supremacy to other men, they bound themselves to homage and service of those kings or government lawmakers. They would now be protected and procured by the walls of man- made government and institutions. They would be regulated and restricted within those walls to service and subjected to their judgment.

“Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.” (Pr. 6:2)

Jesus did not overthrow this concern and warning of the prophets, but affirmed it.

“Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.” (Matthew 5:33-37)

The emphasis on not swearing or taking oaths by Jesus was affirmed, also by James, in no uncertain terms, as something all Christians should avoid more than anything else.

“But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and [your] nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.” (James 5:12)