How does Exodus 20:16 relate to Jesus' teachings on truthfulness? The Ninth Commandment: God’s Unchanging Standard of Truth Exodus 20:16 — “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” • At its simplest, the command forbids lying in any form, especially when someone else will be harmed. • Because it is stated by God Himself, it carries divine authority that never expires. • Truthfulness is anchored in God’s own character; Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that He should lie.” Jesus Carries the Torch of Truthfulness Matthew 5:37 — “But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ Anything more comes from the evil one.” • Jesus echoes the ninth commandment, but goes deeper. He moves from courtroom testimony to everyday conversation. • The point: Integrity is not situational. If God’s people are truthful, oaths become unnecessary because their word already carries weight. Parallel Passages That Tie Both Testaments Together • John 14:6 — Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life,” revealing Himself as the embodiment of the command. • John 8:44 — He contrasts truth with the devil, “the father of lies,” showing that falsehood aligns us with evil. • Ephesians 4:25 — “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor,” applying the ninth commandment directly to church life. From External Rule to Internal Reality Jesus does more than repeat the command; He internalizes it: 1. He links speech to heart condition (Matthew 12:34). 2. He insists that every word will be judged (Matthew 12:36). 3. He shows that truthfulness flows from loving one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:39). Practical Takeaways for Modern Believers • Speak plainly; avoid half-truths, exaggerations, and hidden agendas. • When you fail, repent quickly and make restitution (Proverbs 28:13). • Use words to build trust in homes, workplaces, and churches—mirroring the reliability of Christ Himself. Why This Matters • A truthful life points people to the Savior who is Truth incarnate. • Obeying Exodus 20:16 and Jesus’ teaching safeguards relationships and honors God’s holy name. |
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