Of Lawful Oaths and Vows

Chapter 23 confesses the right use of oaths and vows. A lawful oath is a part of religious worship, wherein the person swearing in truth, righteousness, and judgment solemnly calls God to witness what he asserts or promises. To swear vainly or rashly by his glorious and dreadful name, or to swear at all by any other thing, is sinful and to be abhorred.

This chapter has practical bearing on every Christian’s speech and integrity. Our yes should be yes; our no should be no. Where solemn assurance is required — as in court, in marriage vows, in church covenant — the Christian may take an oath, but only in truth.

The chapter also addresses lawful vows made to God himself — to abstinence, to particular acts of charity, to other voluntary duties — which are to be kept faithfully.

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For the full text of this chapter with scripture proofs, see the1689confession.com or Founders Ministries.