Lesson 7: Speaking with Integrity

Thank you for joining me today as we reflect on Matthew 5:33-37. In this passage, Jesus addresses the issue of oaths and the importance of truthfulness in the life of a believer.

Let Your Yes Be Yes

Jesus states, “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all… Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil” (Matthew 5:33-37). Here, Jesus refers to the Old Testament teachings about keeping one’s word, such as in Numbers 30:2, which commands fulfilling vows made to the Lord.

However, in Jesus’ time, oaths had become a tool for manipulation. People would swear by heaven, earth, or Jerusalem to give the illusion of sincerity while still allowing room for dishonesty. Jesus condemns this practice and calls his followers to a higher standard – one of absolute truthfulness, making oaths unnecessary.

God’s Call to Truthfulness

Throughout Scripture, God consistently calls his people to integrity. Proverbs 12:22 states, “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.” In Ephesians 4:25, Paul urges believers to “put away falsehood” and “speak the truth with his neighbor.” Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:33-37 is not about prohibiting all oaths but about emphasizing that our words should always be trustworthy. A Christian should be known for honesty so that a simple “yes” or “no” is sufficient.

The Christian Commitment to Truth

Church history is filled with examples of Christian leaders who upheld the principle of honesty. John Wesley emphasized that integrity is a mark of genuine faith, urging Methodists to be people whose words and deeds aligned. The Anabaptists, during the Reformation, took Jesus’ words so seriously that they refused to swear oaths in court, believing that their everyday speech should already reflect complete truthfulness.

This teaching challenges us today. In a world where exaggeration, half-truths, and dishonesty are common, Christians must stand out as people of their word. Our testimony to the world is strengthened when our integrity reflects the character of Christ.

Key Principles

1. Jesus calls his followers to be truthful in all their dealings, making oaths unnecessary (Matthew 5:33-37).
2. A Christian’s word should be reliable, demonstrating the sincerity of their faith (Proverbs 12:22; Ephesians 4:25).
3. When we commit to honesty in every area of life, we honor God and reflect his holiness (Colossians 3:9-10).

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:33-37 compare to Old Testament instructions about oaths? (Numbers 30:2; Deuteronomy 23:21-23)
2. Why were people swearing by heaven, earth, and Jerusalem in Jesus’ time, and what was wrong with this practice?
3. How does Jesus’ command to let our “yes” be “yes” apply to daily life and relationships?
4. Why is honesty essential for a strong Christian witness? (Ephesians 4:25)
5. What does James 5:12 add to our understanding of Jesus’ teaching on oaths?
6. How can we cultivate a habit of truthfulness in a world where dishonesty is often rewarded?
7. What are the consequences of dishonesty in personal and professional relationships?
8. How does the integrity of Christian leaders impact the Church’s witness to the world?
9. Are there situations where swearing an oath is necessary today? How should Christians approach such situations?
10. How does this passage challenge your own speech and commitments?

Questions for Discussion and Personal Reflection

1. In what areas of your life do you struggle to be completely truthful?
2. Have you ever experienced a time when someone’s dishonesty damaged trust? How does this reinforce Jesus’ teaching?
3. How can you model truthfulness in your workplace, home, and community?
4. What practical steps can you take to ensure your words align with your actions?
5. How can you encourage a culture of honesty in your church or workplace?
6. Why is it sometimes tempting to exaggerate or bend the truth, and how can you guard against this?
7. How can prayer help in cultivating integrity in speech?
8. What role does accountability play in maintaining a life of honesty?
9. How does reflecting on God’s truthfulness motivate us to be truthful?
10. How can you use Jesus’ teaching to disciple others in the importance of integrity?

Action Steps

1. Make a conscious effort to ensure that your words are always reliable and honest in every situation.
2. Ask a trusted friend or mentor to help you remain committed to integrity in speech and actions.
3. If you’ve been dishonest, seek reconciliation with those affected and ask God to help you walk in truth.

Thank you for joining me today. My hope is that you were encouraged and blessed by reflecting on this passage. You can discover more devotionals, Bible studies, and other resources by clicking here: Walking Points. If you found this study helpful, please consider sharing it with others and encouraging them to subscribe as well.