Topical Encyclopedia In biblical jurisprudence, the principle that two witnesses are necessary to establish a fact is a foundational concept rooted in the Mosaic Law and reiterated throughout Scripture. This principle underscores the importance of corroboration and fairness in judicial proceedings, ensuring that accusations are substantiated by more than a single testimony.Old Testament Foundations The requirement for two or more witnesses is first articulated in the Law of Moses. Deuteronomy 19:15 states, "A lone witness is not sufficient to establish any wrongdoing or sin against a man, regardless of what offense he may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses." This statute was designed to protect individuals from false accusations and to uphold justice within the community of Israel. The principle is further exemplified in the case of capital punishment. Deuteronomy 17:6 declares, "On the testimony of two or three witnesses a man shall be put to death, but he shall not be executed on the testimony of a lone witness." This requirement ensured that the most severe penalties were only carried out when there was clear and corroborated evidence of guilt. New Testament Affirmation The New Testament reaffirms the necessity of multiple witnesses in establishing truth. Jesus Himself references this principle in Matthew 18:16 , where He instructs, "But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'" Here, the context is church discipline, emphasizing the need for fairness and due process within the Christian community. The Apostle Paul also upholds this standard in his epistles. In 2 Corinthians 13:1 , he writes, "This will be my third visit to you. 'Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'" Paul applies this principle to his dealings with the Corinthian church, ensuring that accusations and issues are addressed with integrity and substantiation. Theological Implications The requirement for two or more witnesses reflects the character of God as just and righteous. It serves as a safeguard against false testimony and the miscarriage of justice, aligning with the biblical emphasis on truth and integrity. This principle also highlights the communal aspect of justice, where the community plays a role in discerning truth and maintaining order. In a broader theological context, the concept of multiple witnesses is seen in the testimony of Scripture itself. The Bible, composed of various books and authors, provides a multifaceted witness to the truth of God's revelation. This collective testimony strengthens the reliability and authority of the biblical message. Practical Applications In contemporary Christian practice, the principle of two or more witnesses can be applied in various contexts, including church governance, conflict resolution, and personal accountability. It encourages believers to seek corroboration and to approach disputes with a commitment to truth and fairness. This principle also serves as a reminder of the importance of community and mutual accountability in the pursuit of justice and righteousness. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 35:30Whoever kills any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 17:6 Deuteronomy 19:15 Matthew 18:16 John 8:17 2 Corinthians 13:1 1 Timothy 5:19 Hebrews 10:28 Library The Resurrection of Christ; his Last Interview with his Disciples ... Introductory Notice to Memoirs of Edessa and Other Syriac ... The Spirit Christ's Witness. The Alleged Hostile Witness of Certain of the Early Fathers Proved ... The Exercise of Mercy Optional with God. Though in Order to Establish this Suitable Difference Between the ... The Alleged Hostile Witness of Certain of the Early Fathers Proved ... From the Two Books on the Promises. Narrative Concerning John the Apostle. The Last Discourses of Christ - the Prayer of Consecration. Resources Are the teachings of Witness Lee and the Local Church biblical? | GotQuestions.orgI am a Jehovah's Witness. Why should I consider becoming a Christian? | GotQuestions.org How can I become more motivated for soul winning? | GotQuestions.org Witness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Witness by Laying Hands on the Accused Witness of Instruction in Righteousness Witness of the Holy Spirit is Truth Witness of the Holy Spirit: Borne Against all Unbelievers Witness of the Holy Spirit: Borne to Christ in Heaven Witness of the Holy Spirit: Borne to Christ: As Coming to Redeem and Sanctify Witness of the Holy Spirit: Borne to Christ: As Foretold by Himself Witness of the Holy Spirit: Borne to Christ: As Messiah Witness of the Holy Spirit: Borne to Christ: As Perfecting Saints Witness of the Holy Spirit: Borne to Christ: On Earth Witness of the Holy Spirit: Given to Saints: As an Evidence of Adoption Witness of the Holy Spirit: Given to Saints: As an Evidence of Christ in Them Witness of the Holy Spirit: Given to Saints: As an Evidence of God in Them Witness of the Holy Spirit: Given to Saints: On Believing Witness of the Holy Spirit: Given to Saints: To Testify to Them of Christ Witness of the Holy Spirit: The Faithful Preaching of the Apostles Accompanied By Witness of the Holy Spirit: The First Preaching of the Gospel Confirmed By Witness of the Holy Spirit: To be Implicitly Received Witness: General Scriptures Concerning Witness: Required to Throw the First Stone in Executing the Sentence Witness: To the Transfer of Land Witness: Two Necessary to Establish a Fact Related Terms |
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