The primary function of Commandment number 9 is in the court of law. It is designed to protect against someone lying to the authorities about a ‘neighbour’ in order to get their way. This could include falsely accusing someone, so that they will be removed from influencing your affairs. An example of this is in 1 Kings 21, when the wicked queen Jezebel hired two ‘scoundrels’ to make a false accusation against Naboth, which ended in Naboth being stoned to death for something he didn’t do. Another scenario is lying in order to gain some sort of legal advantage; whether it be over property or finances.
Yet bearing false witness against a neighbour also includes slandering someone behind their back. While this can stem from a vicious desire to see someone’s downfall, it can also simply be from a desire to feel accepted or powerful. The attraction of gossip and slander is it makes us feel like part of the group. There is a tremendous sense of importance and love that comes from others wanting to hear from us. Alongside this comes a sense of power, as our verbal attacks bring us a feeling of superiority over those we’re talking about.
While Commandment 9 is targeted at lying against others, the Bible also frowns on lying to protect one’s reputation. While most Christians would prefer to think of themselves as genuine and honest, Christians lie all too easily to avoid the embarrassment of others finding out just how sinful they really are.
All these sins stem from placing something above the glory of God; whether it be a sense of power, feeling accepted, financial gain, or pride. May we continue to dig such idols from our hearts, and make pleasing our Lord and Saviour our number 1 goal in life.
Brendan McLaughlin
