Question:
Is it appropriate to make oaths? Refer to James 5:12 or Matthew 5:34.
Answer:
These scriptures forbid extrajudicial oaths. Many believe their word will not be taken seriously unless they attach an oath to it, such as saying, “I hope to die,” or swearing by their mother, some saint, or prophet, or by saying, “I put that on …” However, the Lord teaches that these practices are wrong. All extrajudicial oaths are inappropriate; nonetheless, when authorities require us to take an oath, it is proper to comply. For instance, Jesus was sworn in during His trial, as noted in Matthew 26:63. The high priest asked Him, “I adjure Thee by the living God,” and only then did Jesus respond. In Hebrews 6, it is written that the Lord swore by Himself. Therefore, it is appropriate for Christians to take oaths on the right occasions.
