The next topic in Jesus’ sermon on the mount seems almost trivial compared to murder, adultery, and divorce. But in several ways, it is more important than those three combined. That is a bold statement, but let’s explore this together.
“You have also heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the Lord.’ But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, ‘By heaven!’ because heaven is God’s throne. And do not say, ‘By the earth!’ because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, ‘By Jerusalem!’ for Jerusalem is the city of the great King. Do not even say, ‘By my head!’ for you can’t turn one hair white or black. Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:33–37, NLT)
Seems almost petty, right? The vows in view were mostly two-fold. On the hand, they bound the person to a course of action by invoking a higher power. That doesn’t seem bad on the face of it. The Book of Hebrews even indicates that it is somewhat normal. “Now when people take an oath, they call on someone greater than themselves to hold them to it. And without any question that oath is binding.” (Hebrews 6:16, NLT) But things get darker when we consider what is on the other hand.
You see, a vow is binding not only on the one making it but also on God. Basically, the vow is saying, “may God punish me if I don’t fulfill this promise.” And that is the evil part since it attempts to bind God to actions contrary to His will. All such attempts to manipulate God (or nature, fates, gods, angels, or spirits) into actions of either blessings or curses are witchcraft. In Jesus’ own words – they are from the evil one.
Do you see now how this seemingly trivial matter surpasses murder, adultery, and divorce? Trying to control God is the root sin of all sins. Satan’s lie to Eve promised, “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.” (Genesis 3:5, NLT) Binding ourselves, others, and God through a vow are not the Jesus Way.
Jesus instructed, “Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’” Be truthful. Keep promises made, and if a promise becomes impossible to fulfill, be upfront with the parties involved. By keeping our word, we are demonstrating God’s character since He also keeps His word. “For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.” (2 Corinthians 1:20, NLT)
Some practical considerations. What do we do when asked to swear in court? What does your conscience say? If it is a sin for you to swear before God to tell the truth, most courts allow you to affirm rather than swear the oath. On the other hand, the oath to “tell the truth so help me God.” It is binding on the person but does not bind God to do harm. Again, in this instance, it is a matter of conscience.
Do we still make promises? Of course. A promise is different from an oath. But we must also be careful in making promises. A promise is a kind of debt. In fact, all debt is a promise to repay. I’ve learned to be careful with making promises and steadfastly strive to fulfill the promises I’ve made.
The Jesus Way in this is clear. Do not manipulate God through vows, oaths, or prayers. Say “Yes” to God. Let your word be clear with a simple yes or no, and keep to it. This command also extends to all forms of witchcraft and shamanism. It is not the Jesus Way to curse others or to manufacture blessings through spells, offerings, or sacrifices. The same is true for all manner of manipulation and control which is the way of the world. (2 Corinthians 10:4) The Jesus Way is far different than the world’s.
We, as Christ followers, are instead directed to “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NLT) And – “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28–29, NLT) How and when God chooses to answer our worries is up to Him. But we know that we can trust His Word. Rather, the more important question is whether those in our world can trust our word. The Jesus Way is “Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.”
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