Lord's Day 37

Question 101.

May we then swear religiously by the name of God?

Answer. Yes: either when the magistrates demand it of the subjects; or when necessity requires us thereby to confirm [a] fidelity and truth to the glory of God, and the safety of our neighbor: for such an oath is [b] founded on God's word, and therefore was justly [c] used by the saints, both in the Old and New Testament.

Question 102.

May we also swear by saints or any other creatures?

Answer. No; for a lawful oath is calling upon God, as the only one who knows the heart, that he will bear witness to the truth, and punish me if I swear [d] falsely; which honor is [e] due to no creature.

[a]: Ex. 22:11; Neh. 13:25
[b]: Deut. 6:13; Heb. 6:16
[c]: Gen. 21:24; Jos. 9:15,19; 1Sam. 24:22; 2Cor. 1:23; Rom. 1:9
[d]: 2Cor. 1:23
[e]: Mat. 5:34,35