Section 37: Lord’s Day 37

May we then swear religiously by the name of God?

Yes: either when the magistrates demand it of the subjects; or when necessity requires us thereby to confirm fidelity and truth to the glory of God, and the safety of our neighbour:^a for such an oath is founded on God’s word,^b and therefore was justly used by the saints, both in the Old and New Testament.^c

1. a. Exodus 22:11; Nehemiah 13:25

   Exodus 22:11

   Nehemiah 13:25

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

2. b. Deuteronomy 6:13; Hebrews 6:16

   Deuteronomy 6:13

   Hebrews 6:16

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

3. c. Genesis 21:24; Joshua 9:15, 19; 1 Samuel 24:22; 2 Corinthians 1:23; Romans 1:9

   Genesis 21:24

   Joshua 9:15; Joshua 9:19

   1 Samuel 24:22

   2 Corinthians 1:23

   Romans 1:9

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

May we also swear by saints or any other creatures?

No: for a lawful oath is calling upon God, as the only one who knows the heart; that he will bear witness to the truth, and punish me if I swear falsely;^a which honour is due to no creature.^b

1. a. 2 Corinthians 1:23

   2 Corinthians 1:23

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

2. b. Matthew 5:34–35

   Matthew 5:34–35

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible