Topical Bible: Candidate: Refuses to Make Promises

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In the context of biblical teachings, the concept of refusing to make promises can be examined through the lens of scriptural guidance on oaths, vows, and the integrity of one's word. The Bible provides various insights into the nature of promises and the importance of truthfulness and reliability in communication.

Biblical Context and Teachings

The Bible emphasizes the significance of honesty and integrity in one's speech. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the issue of making oaths, urging His followers to speak truthfully without the need for swearing by anything. In Matthew 5:33-37 , Jesus states: "Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.' But I tell you not to swear 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. Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one."

This passage highlights the importance of straightforwardness and the avoidance of unnecessary oaths. Jesus teaches that one's word should be sufficient, and that truthfulness should be inherent in all communication. The refusal to make promises, in this context, aligns with the principle of letting one's word stand on its own merit without the need for additional assurances.

Old Testament Insights

The Old Testament also provides guidance on the making and keeping of vows. In Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 , it is written: "When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it." This passage underscores the seriousness with which vows and promises should be regarded. The refusal to make promises can be seen as a cautious approach to avoid the sin of breaking one's word before God.

Practical Implications

From a practical standpoint, the refusal to make promises can be viewed as a commitment to honesty and reliability. By avoiding promises, individuals may seek to ensure that their words are always truthful and that they do not commit to actions they cannot fulfill. This approach aligns with the biblical call to integrity and the avoidance of deceit.

Character and Integrity

The refusal to make promises can also reflect a character that values integrity and the weight of one's word. In James 5:12 , the apostle reiterates the teaching of Jesus: "Above all, my brothers, do not swear, not by heaven or earth or by any other oath. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No,' so that you will not fall under judgment." This reinforces the idea that a person's character should be such that their simple affirmation or denial is trusted without the need for additional guarantees.

In summary, the biblical perspective on refusing to make promises is rooted in the call for honesty, integrity, and the reliability of one's word. By adhering to these principles, individuals demonstrate a commitment to living in accordance with God's truth and righteousness.

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2 Chronicles 10:3-16
And they sent and called him. So Jeroboam and all Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam, saying,
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Questions About the Lord's Supper
... condition of soul, who habitually refuses to obey ... the difficulties of bishops tenfold,
and make it impossible to examine any candidate for orders ...
/.../chapter xx questions about the.htm

Footnotes
... And if I don't make a larger collection of more impious and ridiculous things ... He
did not, however, actually come forwurd as a candidate, and the gentleman who ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/footnotes.htm