“You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.”
Exodus 20:16
The ninth commandment brings to mind images of a courtroom, a place most of us probably hope to avoid. But this commandment does have a broader implication, too, when we consider how Jesus applies it and the law in general to our lives.
Jesus, who is the truth (John 14:6), instructs us to tell the truth always. That means dishonesty is forbidden. The harm is even greater if we speak lies about another person. We may lie about a thing and say it is good when actually it is bad. Or we might lie to ourselves about our own behavior. But if we lie about someone else, we have misrepresented them, attacking the character of another of God’s image-bearers. To undermine the credibility of another is not loving. That’s why Jesus closely follows His summary of the Ten Commandments with the broader command to love our neighbor.
Speak up to affirm the character of others when you can. In God’s courtroom, Jesus lovingly testifies on our behalf, forgiving us of our every sin and assuring us that we are His. We need no other witness!
Jesus, who is the truth (John 14:6), instructs us to tell the truth always. That means dishonesty is forbidden. The harm is even greater if we speak lies about another person. We may lie about a thing and say it is good when actually it is bad. Or we might lie to ourselves about our own behavior. But if we lie about someone else, we have misrepresented them, attacking the character of another of God’s image-bearers. To undermine the credibility of another is not loving. That’s why Jesus closely follows His summary of the Ten Commandments with the broader command to love our neighbor.
Speak up to affirm the character of others when you can. In God’s courtroom, Jesus lovingly testifies on our behalf, forgiving us of our every sin and assuring us that we are His. We need no other witness!
Scripture Focus
Matthew 19:16-19
Insight
“Grace to you… from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.” (Revelation 1:4-5)
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 5-6
- Psalm 106
- Romans 3-4