CHAPTER IX.
THE NINTH COMMANDMENT.
Exodus XX, 16: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
As the eighth commandment provides for the security of every man's property, this provides for the defense of his good name; which "is rather to be chosen than great riches," and ought, therefore, to be guarded with the utmost care. A good name renders a man more serviceable to the cause of God, and the interests of his fellow men.
1. False Swearing is Condemned.
Lev. V, 1. And if a soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing, and is a witness, whether he hath seen or known of it; if he do not utter it, then he shall bear his iniquity.
Ex. XX, 16. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
Deut. XIX, 15. One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.
16. If a false witness rise up against any man to testify against him that which is wrong;
17. Then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the Lord, before the priests and the judges, which shall be in those days;