The name of God only is that by which men ought to swear, and therein it is to be used with all holy fear and reverence. Therefore, to swear vainly, or rashly, by that glorious and dreadful Name; or, to swear at all by any other thing, is sinful, and to be abhorred. Yet, as in matters of weight and moment, an oath is warranted by the Word of God, under the new testament as well as under the old; so a lawful oath, being imposed by lawful authority, in such matters, ought to be taken.
From time to time it is appropriate to take a vow or make an oath. When one does so, however, one ought only to invoke the name of God, and then only with an attitude of reverence and respect and certainly not flippantly. One needs carefully to consider what one is saying or promising. God does not take such vows lightly, particularly when his name is involved. Such is serious business.
Tomorrow: The solemnity of lawful oaths.
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