Lord’s Day 37
Q102. May we also make promises by saints or other created things?
No. A proper oath means calling on God — who knows our hearts — to be our witness and to punish us if we lie. No created thing deserves that kind of honor.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Romans 9:1
2 Corinthians 1:23
Matthew 5:34–37
Matthew 23:16–22
James 5:12
“But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
Why can we not make promises by saints or other created things?
- 2
What does a proper oath actually do, according to the catechism?
- 3
What does this teach us about the difference between God and everything he made?
Illustration
If you needed someone to witness an important promise, you would choose the most trustworthy person you know. No created being knows everything or can judge every heart. Only God can serve as the perfect witness because only he knows all things.
Application
When you promise something this week, keep it simple and honest. A plain "yes" or "no" backed up by truthful action is what God wants from you. Let your words be reliable enough that people trust them.