June 15, 2025

Oaths

Preacher:
Passage: Matthew 5:33-37, Matthew 5:17-19, Exodus 20:7, Leviticus 19:12, Numbers 30:2, Matthew 23:16-22, Hebrews 6:16, Galatians 1:18-20, John 8:34

In this continued exploration of the Sermon on the Mount, we look at Matthew 5:33-37, and we're challenged to examine the integrity of our hearts and words. Jesus calls us to a higher standard of truthfulness, beyond mere oath-keeping. We're reminded that as God's people, our 'yes' should mean yes, and our 'no' should mean no. This teaching exposes the dangers of looking for loopholes in our promises or trying to appear righteous while harboring deceit. The message urges us to consider: Are we truly salt and light in this world? Do our words and actions consistently reflect God's character? This introspection isn't meant to condemn us, but to lead us to repentance and transformation. As we confront our tendency to bend the truth, we're called to rely on Christ's righteousness and to pursue a pure heart that naturally speaks truth in all circumstances.