The Ninth Commandment: “Thou Shalt Not Bear False Witness Against Thy Neighbour”
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The Ninth Commandment: “Thou Shalt Not Bear False Witness Against Thy Neighbour” (Exodus 20:16 KJV).
Words have power. They can heal, or they can harm. As a counselor, I often see relationships broken not by actions, but by words—lies, gossip, exaggeration, and silence when truth is needed. The Ninth Commandment protects truth, trust, and reputation.
The Ninth Commandment requires us to maintain and promote truth between people, and to protect our neighbor’s good name. God cares deeply about truth because He Himself is truth.
falsewitness
What the Ninth Commandment Means
The Bible says, “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” (Exodus 20:16 KJV).
This commandment includes:
Not lying
Not spreading rumors or gossip
Not exaggerating facts
Speaking truth with love
Defending others when false words are spoken
False witness harms people even when no physical damage is done.
Why This Commandment Matters Today
Today, false witness spreads quickly—especially through social media, text messages, and assumptions. Psychology shows that gossip creates division, anxiety, and mistrust.
Many people justify false witness by saying:
“I was just venting.”
“It’s probably true.”
“They deserved it.”
God calls people higher. Truth protects community and conscience.
A Bible Story: Naboth’s Vineyard
In 1 Kings 21, Queen Jezebel arranged false witnesses to accuse Naboth so King Ahab could take his vineyard. Lies led to Naboth’s death, and God judged Ahab’s house.
This story shows that false witness destroys lives and invites God’s judgment.
A Real-Life Counseling Story
I once counseled a woman whose reputation was damaged by rumors at work. Though innocent, she suffered stress and fear. Over time, the truth came out—but the damage lingered.
This experience shows why God protects reputation. Words can wound deeply.
What Obeying the Ninth Commandment Looks Like
Obedience includes:
Speaking truth carefully
Refusing to spread gossip
Asking questions instead of assuming
Defending truth when lies are spoken
Truth builds trust. Lies destroy it.
How This Commandment Heals Communities
As a counselor, I see peace return when people stop speaking behind backs and start speaking honestly. Truth creates safety.
God’s command teaches responsibility for our words.
Grace for Those Who Have Spoken Wrongly
Many people regret words spoken in anger or carelessness. God offers forgiveness when we repent and seek to restore what was harmed.
✔️Reflection Question
Are there ways your words—or silence—could be harming truth or another person’s reputation?
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