Rev. Jeffrey T. Howard
Grace and Peace Episode 54
Presbyterian Church of Easton
October 10, 2021
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:2
Heidelberg Catechism
112 Q. What is the aim of the ninth commandment?
A. That I never give false testimony against anyone, twist no one’s words, not gossip or slander, nor join in condemning anyone rashly or without a hearing. Rather, in court and everywhere else,I should avoid lying and deceit of every kind; these are the very devices the devil uses, and they would call down on me God’s intense wrath. I should love the truth,speak it candidly, and openly acknowledge it. And I should do what I can to guard and advance my neighbor’s good name.
Deuteronomy 5:20 “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.”
The ninth commandment prohibits lying, specifically in a court of law. The sixth commandment, “do not kill”, and the seventh commandment, “do not commit adultery” both have a biblical punishment of death. The eighth commandment, “do not steal”, has a lesser punishment based on the value of what was stolen. Because these punishments were so severe there must be a trial to determine the truth of an offense before the punishment is carried out. In a trial, the Bible requires two witnesses. Since the violation of a biblical law comes with such a high penalty there must be a biblical requirement that these witnesses tell the truth. And this is the primary reason for the ninth commandment.
The biblical punishment for lying in court is that you will receive that same punishment as the person you lied for. So if a person is on trial for murder and you lie about it then you too may be put to death. With such severe punishment for lying in court, you might be tempted to just say nothing as a witness in a trial. Keeping quiet is better than telling a lie. But the Bible says that if you know the truth you must speak up.
The ninth commandment is actually broader than just requiring truthful testimony. It also requires telling the truth in all circumstances. So gossip and slander are out. You must always be truthful when you talk about someone. You may not talk about someone behind his back. You must always give someone a chance to defend himself. And you must not slander, by telling lies about someone damaging his or her character and reputation. Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, help us to always speak the truth. Prevent us from gossiping behind someone's back. And help to always keep our tongues of fire under control. We pray in the glorious name of Jesus.
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