The Ten Commandments
Q16. What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray them, slander them, or hurt their reputation, but defend them, speak well of them, and explain everything in the kindest way.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Proverbs 19:5
“A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.”
James 4:11
“Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law.”
1 Peter 4:8
“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”
Ephesians 4:25
“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.”
Read Luther’s expanded teaching
From the Large Catechism (1529)