Heidelberg Catechism / Lord's Day 37 / Q. 102
Q. 102. May we also swear by saints, or any other creatures?
Question. May we also swear by saints, or any other creatures?
Answer. No; for a lawful oath is a calling upon God, as the one who knows the heart (1 Kings 8;39), that he will bear witness to the truth, and punish me if I swear falsely: which honor is due to no creature (2 Cor. 1;23).
Proofs.
- [proof-1] 1 Kings 8;39.—For thou, even thou only, knowest the hearts of all the children of men.— James 5;12.
- [proof-2] 2 Cor. 1;23.—Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet upon Corinth.— Rom. 1;9.—Deut. 32;35.—Matt. 4;10.—Matt. 5;34-36.