The Ninth Commandment

Good morning, church family!

Before we delve into today's teaching, I want to share a funny incident with you all. The Sunday school teacher asked her class, "Now, children, do you all know what the sin of lying is?" Little Johnny's hand shot up like lightning and he answered, "Yes, ma'am. It's when you tell the truth, but nobody believes you!"

Well, I think Johnny may have misunderstood just a bit, but it's a great segue into today's topic, the Ninth Commandment, found in Exodus 20:16, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor."

The Ninth Commandment is primarily concerned with the power of our words. It is a commandment against lying and spreading falsehoods, especially in a context that could harm others.

Consider the book of Proverbs, where Solomon provides wisdom on this topic. In Proverbs 6:16-19, he writes, "There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who stirs up conflict in the community."

Note that out of the seven detestable things, two relate to false witness and lying. It shows us the gravity of bearing false witness.

Consider also the account of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5. They sold a piece of property and lied about the price they received, keeping part of the money for themselves. When confronted by Peter, they maintained their lie, and as a result, they both fell down and died. This is a drastic example, but it illustrates the seriousness of dishonesty in the eyes of God.

So, the Ninth Commandment calls us not just to refrain from lying but to actively uphold the truth. As followers of Jesus, who said, "I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6), we are called to reflect His character by being truthful.

Let's bow our heads: "Lord, help us to uphold truth in all our dealings, and to speak with integrity even when it's hard. Thank you for being a God of truth. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."

As we go about our week, let's remember the importance of honesty, not just in what we say but in our actions as well. Let's strive to live in a manner that reflects the truth of Christ in us.

God bless you!