1) Define the meaning of the word 'oath' as used in the Scriptures
2) Explain its use both in Mathew and James
3) Address the issue of truth
4) Practical Applications
1) The word oath is used in reference to God as well as to man.
When used in reference to God....it has to do with His most holy and solemn asseveration of the absolute truth of His divine word in order that His people might trust all the more His promises
An oath sworn by men is a most solemn appeal to God to confirm the truth of their words with the express implication of His punishment is in case they fail to speak the truth.
2) The word is used in Matthew 5: 33-37
In this section of the Sermon on the Mount or Lord is expanding His statement found in Matthew 5:20 'For I say unto you, that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven.'
The Scribes went to great lengths to lessen the solemnity of an oath...they did so by making false distinctions among oaths.
See Matthew 5:34-37 to see our Lord's teaching
We will see that the words of our Lord do not mean that swearing (understood in the right sense) in every form is unlawful.
Our Lord prohibits what we might call false swearing.
3) Address the issue of truth
Underlying this whole matter of oaths in reference to man is the issue of telling the truth.
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