Scripture treats listening and speaking as part of loving God and your neighbor. The heart from which words come, their truth, their timing, and their effect on the hearer all matter. Faithful speech grows as you receive God’s Word and let it shape both what you say and the way you say it.
Listen with patience and a willingness to learn
Begin by giving careful attention to what you hear. James 1:19–21 calls believers to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. James gives a reason: human anger does not produce the righteousness God requires. A hurried answer can become an expression of anger before it has become a response to what is true. Listen patiently enough to understand, and give yourself time to answer with judgment.
This readiness begins with receiving God’s own instruction. James 1:17–18 describes God as the giver of good gifts who has brought his people forth through the word of truth. Verse 21 therefore calls them to receive the implanted word with meekness. The listening James seeks includes a humble response to that saving word. Approach Scripture ready to be taught and corrected; bring the same teachable attention to words of truth spoken by another person.
Proverbs 18:13–17 explains why hearing a matter is necessary for a fair answer. Verse 13 calls answering before hearing foolish and shameful. Verse 15 praises the ear that seeks knowledge, and verse 17 observes that the first person’s case can seem right until another examines it. Understand the account, seek what is still missing, and let evidence correct your first impression. These sayings commend thoughtful inquiry; they do not make the second speaker automatically right.
Let listening lead to an appropriate response. James 1:22–27 compares hearing without doing to looking in a mirror and then forgetting what one has seen. He names restraint of the tongue and practical care for people in distress among the expressions of faithful religion. Proverbs 15:28–33 similarly joins a considered answer with an ear willing to hear reproof. When you learn that you have spoken wrongly, receive the correction and change what you say and do.
Further study: Margaret Aymer
Speak truth from a heart being renewed in Christ
Make truthfulness part of the life you have received in Christ. Ephesians 4:20–25 moves from learning Christ and renewal of the mind to speaking truth with one’s neighbor. Paul gives a relational reason: “for we are members one of another.” People who belong together need to be able to trust one another’s words. Tell the truth about what you know, what you have done, and what you intend, with regard for the people who must rely on your account.
Colossians 3:9–11 gives the same instruction through the change Christ brings: believers have put off the old person with its deeds and put on the new, which is being renewed after the Creator’s image. Truthful speech belongs to that renewed life. The following verses describe compassion, kindness, humility, patience, and love. Honesty and care therefore grow together as expressions of belonging to Christ (Colossians 3:12–17).
Truth also serves a community’s peace. In Zechariah 8:14–19, the LORD promises good to Jerusalem and Judah and calls the people to truthful speech, sound judgment in their gates, and love of truth and peace. Their restoration is to be accompanied by faithful treatment of their neighbors. The promise concerns those people and that setting; its stated duties show why peace needs honest words and just decisions. Ephesians 4:25 carries the call to speak truth into the Christian community.
Attend to the heart from which your words arise. In Matthew 12:22–37, some Pharisees attribute Jesus’ deliverance of a man to demonic power. Jesus answers the accusation, identifies the work of God’s Spirit, and then compares words to fruit that reveals a tree. Good or evil speech comes from what a person treasures in the heart. His warning about accountability for words makes their moral weight clear. Seek a heart that receives God’s truth and desires another person’s good; lasting honesty involves that inner change as well as accurate sentences.
Further study: S. M. Baugh
Choose words that give help and grace
Aim to leave the hearer better able to understand and do what is good. Ephesians 4:29 calls for words that build up and give grace to those who hear. To edify is to build up; the image directs attention to what your words contribute to another person’s life. Verses 31–32 join that speech with kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness, and Ephesians 5:1–2 grounds the whole manner of life in Christ’s love and self-giving. Consider the person’s need and choose truthful words that serve it.
Truth and love belong in the same act of speaking. Ephesians 4:11–16 describes Christ equipping his people to grow toward maturity, become stable in the truth, and build one another up in love. First Corinthians 13:1–7 explains why impressive speech alone cannot do this work: without love it becomes noise. The love Paul describes is patient and kind, seeks another’s good, and rejoices in the truth. Give clear instruction or encouragement with that purpose, allowing love to shape both the content and the manner.
Proverbs makes the benefit of such speech vivid. Rash words can pierce like a sword, while a wise tongue brings healing (Proverbs 12:17–22). A gentle answer can turn away anger, and a wholesome tongue is compared to a tree of life (Proverbs 15:1–4). Proverbs 16:21–24 joins a wise heart to instructive lips and describes pleasant words as honey that refreshes. These are wisdom sayings about the good words can do. Practice their gentleness and care without treating them as a promise that every listener will respond peacefully.
Give that same consideration to people outside the church. Colossians 4:2–6 begins with prayer that Paul may speak the mystery of Christ clearly, then calls believers to wise conduct and speech with grace, seasoned with salt. The seasoning image presents speech that is fitting and worth receiving; its purpose is knowing how to answer each person. Understand what is being asked and answer with clarity and graciousness. First Peter 3:14–17 likewise joins readiness to explain Christian hope with meekness and a good conscience, while expressly allowing that doing good may still bring suffering.
Continue to seek another person’s good when your own treatment is harsh. First Peter 3:8–12 calls believers to respond to insult with blessing, then recalls the psalm’s connection between truthful speech, doing good, and pursuing peace. Romans 12:14–21 similarly commands blessing for persecutors and places it within compassion, peace as far as it depends on you, and practical help for enemies. Blessing expresses a desire for their good before God. Let your words serve that purpose while continuing to speak truthfully about what has happened.
Further study: S. M. Baugh · Biblical Studies Press
Discern when to answer and when to be quiet
Allow silence to serve understanding, self-control, and care. Proverbs 17:27–28 associates knowledge with restraint in words and observes that even a fool may appear wise when silent. Silence by itself does not establish wisdom; the saying teaches the value of holding back speech that has not been considered. Ecclesiastes 3:1–15 includes both a time to keep silence and a time to speak in its reflection on life’s seasons and the limits of human understanding before God. Neither constant speech nor constant silence suits every occasion.
A wise response considers what answering would accomplish. Proverbs 26:4 says to refrain from answering a fool according to his folly, lest you become like him. The next verse calls for an answer, lest he become wise in his own estimation. The stated reasons help explain the pair: an answer can participate in foolishness, while a fitting reply can expose it. Consider whether your words will clarify the matter and whether you can speak without adopting the foolish conduct. These proverbs require judgment about the response and the occasion.
When words are needed, give attention to their timing and manner. Proverbs 15:23 praises a word spoken in due season, and verse 28 describes the righteous heart studying how to answer. Proverbs 25:11–15 compares a fitting word and a wise correction received by a listening ear to valuable ornaments, then commends patience and a gentle tongue in persuasion. Think through what needs to be said, speak it understandably, and give the hearer room to receive it.
Jesus’ conduct shows why silence cannot be turned into a duty to leave every accusation unanswered. In Mark 14:55–62, the witnesses against him disagree; he initially remains silent, then answers the high priest’s question about being the Christ. In John 18:19–24, he points to the public character of his teaching and challenges an officer to identify any wrong that would justify striking him. These are particular events in his trial. Together they show truthful testimony and restrained silence serving different purposes; neither passage gives a formula for answering every hostile person.
Quiet presence can also be a form of care. Job 2:11–13 describes three friends coming to comfort Job, weeping with him, and sitting silently because they see the greatness of his grief. Their seven days belong to this account, not a required period of silence for everyone. Later, God rebukes their speech about him (Job 42:7–9). The account encourages humility about what you can explain and attention to the suffering person before you. Compassionate presence need not be filled with an explanation you cannot truthfully give.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Strengthen others with encouragement and faithful correction
Give encouragement substance by recalling what God has done and promised. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18, believers grieving the dead are taught that Jesus died and rose, that the dead in Christ will rise, and that his people will be with him. Paul then tells them to comfort one another with these words. In 1 Thessalonians 5:9–11, Christ’s death and their hope of life with him again become reasons to strengthen one another. Christian encouragement helps another person hold to a true ground of hope.
Pay attention to the kind of help the person needs. First Thessalonians 5:12–15 distinguishes admonishing those who are unruly, comforting the fainthearted—the people called “feebleminded” in the KJV—supporting the weak, and being patient toward everyone. The aim is to pursue another’s good. Hebrews 3:7–19 adds urgency: recalling the wilderness generation’s unbelief, it calls believers to exhort one another daily so that sin’s deceit does not harden them. Hebrews 10:19–25 grounds continued gathering and encouragement in access to God through Jesus and in God’s faithfulness. Use words that help people persevere in faith and act in love.
Faithful care sometimes needs to name what should change. Proverbs 27:5–6 values an open rebuke and a friend’s faithful wounds above affection that offers no needed help. The point is the friend’s faithfulness, not the desirability of causing pain. Galatians 6:1–5 directs those who are spiritual to restore someone overtaken in a fault with meekness, while considering their own vulnerability to temptation. Approach correction as a fellow servant seeking restoration, ready to speak plainly and to examine yourself.
Acts 18:24–28 gives a constructive example. Apollos is eloquent, zealous, and knowledgeable in Scripture, yet knows only John’s baptism. Aquila and Priscilla hear him, take him to themselves, and explain God’s way more accurately. He then helps believers and demonstrates from Scripture that Jesus is the Christ. The account preserves both his real gifts and his need to learn. Help another person understand more fully without treating a limitation as the whole measure of that person.
Keep teaching patient and directed toward truth. Second Timothy 2:22–26 addresses the Lord’s servant, who is to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, teach gently, and look to God to grant repentance and knowledge of the truth. Winning a quarrel is not its stated goal. Colossians 3:12–17 places the whole church’s mutual teaching and admonition within compassion, patience, forgiveness, and love. These qualities give correction a setting in which another person’s faithful growth remains the purpose.
Further study: Crossway / ESV translation team
Guard what is entrusted to you and speak for what is right
Treat another person’s confidence as a responsibility. Proverbs 11:12–13 links understanding with holding one’s peace and contrasts a faithful spirit with the disclosure of secrets. Proverbs 25:8–10 tells a person in a dispute to address the neighbor directly and to avoid exposing a confidence to someone else. The concern includes harm to trust and the disgrace that follows betrayal. Speak to the person concerned, and share what is needed for a faithful purpose rather than spreading the matter.
Truthful speech also serves justice when testimony is needed. Exodus 23:1–9 directs Israel to resist false reports, pressure from a crowd, partiality, and bribery in judgment. Leviticus 5:1 concerns a witness who knows a matter but fails to speak when called to testify; the following verses place that failure within confession and sacrificial provision for sin. These are covenant laws for Israel, not a transfer of its entire legal system to the church. They show why protecting a confidence cannot be made a rule for withholding testimony that justice requires.
Use the opportunity to speak for those whose cause needs a hearing. Proverbs 31:1–9 records a mother’s instruction to King Lemuel. She warns him against conduct that would make him forget the law and then tells him to open his mouth for those unable to speak and judge the cause of the poor and needy. The immediate duty is a ruler’s. Its connection between authority, careful judgment, and a vulnerable person’s need helps you use your own opportunity to speak truthfully on another’s behalf.
Give wrongdoing the hearing and response it actually requires. In Matthew 18:15–20, Jesus begins correction between a brother and the person he has wronged, with gaining the brother as the goal; continued refusal can require witnesses and the church. Privacy serves restoration and does not make the matter permanently unspeakable. Leviticus 19:11–18 similarly places honest dealing, correction, and love of neighbor together. James 4:11–12 reminds believers that God is the lawgiver and judge. Speak as someone accountable to that law, seeking truth and restoration rather than claiming the right to condemn another person at will.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Let your yes and no be trustworthy
Speak so that a simple commitment can be trusted. In Matthew 5:33–37, Jesus recalls the command to fulfill oaths to the Lord and gives the instruction “Swear not at all” before directing his hearers to plain yes and no. His reasons address the things people swear by: heaven is God’s throne, earth his footstool, Jerusalem the great King’s city, and even one’s own head is beyond one’s full control. Invoking those things does not place speech outside God’s concern. Let the truthfulness of your word carry the commitment.
Matthew 23:16–22 makes the problem of evasive distinctions explicit. Jesus rebukes teaching that treats an oath by the temple as nothing but an oath by its gold as binding, or separates the altar from its gift. He explains that the altar, temple, and heaven belong with what they contain and with God himself. James 5:7–12 likewise places plain yes and no within patient faithfulness before the coming Judge. Take responsibility for what you say without dividing your words into those that really count and those you may disregard.
Take the breadth of this command seriously. Matthew 5:34 and James 5:12 have led some Christians to refrain from every formal oath. Other Christians distinguish solemn testimony, pointing to Paul’s appeal to God as witness in 2 Corinthians 1:23. The relationship between these passages needs careful consideration; neither should be silently set aside. Their common demand is dependable truthfulness. Let your ordinary yes and no be fully reliable, and avoid using an oath to make unreliable speech seem trustworthy.
Consider a commitment before making it, and honor it when it costs you. Psalm 15:1–5 describes truthful, upright conduct before God, including keeping an oath even when it brings personal hurt. Ecclesiastes 5:1–7 connects reverence with readiness to hear, restraint in promises made before God, and prompt fulfillment of a vow. Deuteronomy 23:21–23 says that refraining from a vow is not itself sin, while a vow freely made must be kept. These passages commend thoughtful, faithful commitment; enthusiasm at the moment of speaking is not the same as carrying out one’s word.
Be honest about plans and accountable when they change. In 2 Corinthians 1:15–2:4, Paul explains his altered visit, rejects the charge of a shifting yes and no, and gives his reason: he wished to spare the Corinthians a painful encounter and wrote out of love. This is his particular explanation, not a general excuse for abandoning promises. It shows that a changed plan can require a truthful account of one’s purpose. James 4:13–17 also teaches humility about the future: life and action depend on the Lord’s will. Make plans with that dependence and carry your responsibilities faithfully.
A commitment remains subject to what is right before God. Mark 6:17–29 tells how Herod’s sweeping oath and regard for his guests lead him to order John the Baptist’s death. The narrator has already called John just and holy through Herod’s own recognition. Keeping the oath does not make the killing righteous. A wrongful promise calls for turning from the wrong, not carrying it into action. The uprightness commended in Psalm 15:2–5 includes both dependable words and refusing harm to the innocent.
Further study: Craig S. Keener · Daniel M. Doriani · Francois P. Viljoen
Let your speech agree with worship and keep growing in grace
Take responsibility for the influence your words carry. James 3:1–5 begins with teachers—the KJV’s “masters”—who face stricter judgment, then acknowledges that all stumble. A small bit directs a horse, a small helm turns a large ship, and a little fire can kindle a great blaze. The tongue is small, yet its effects reach through life. If you teach, take particular care with what others learn from you. In every conversation, value words according to what they can do, not merely how easily they are spoken.
Let honor for God shape your treatment of the people he made. James 3:6–12 describes the tongue’s destructive power and human inability to tame it, then confronts the use of one mouth both to bless God and to curse people made in God’s likeness. A spring does not produce both fresh and bitter water, nor does a tree naturally yield a different tree’s fruit. The images expose the inconsistency and call for an undivided life. James 3:13–18 then directs attention to wisdom expressed in meekness, purity, peace, mercy, and good fruit. Seek that character as you learn to speak consistently with your worship.
Ask God to form both your words and their source. Psalm 19:7–14 praises the instruction that makes wise and rejoices the heart, then asks for cleansing from hidden faults and protection from presumptuous sins. Its closing prayer joins acceptable words with acceptable meditation of the heart. Psalm 141:1–5 similarly asks God to guard the mouth and turn the heart from evil, while welcoming righteous correction as kindness. Prayer, reception of Scripture, and willingness to be corrected belong together in this work.
When you have sinned in speech, acknowledge it and seek reconciliation. First John 1:5–2:2 calls believers into the light, exposes the false claim to be without sin, and promises forgiveness and cleansing to those who confess. Jesus Christ is their righteous advocate with the Father. Matthew 5:21–26 gives repair a place in worship: Jesus addresses anger and contempt and calls the person who remembers a brother’s grievance to seek reconciliation. Confess the wrong truthfully, correct the false account you have given, and take the steps toward peace that lie with you.
Keep filling your speech with what is good. Colossians 3:16–17 calls for Christ’s word to dwell richly among believers in teaching, admonition, song, and thanksgiving, with all words and deeds done in the Lord Jesus’ name. Ephesians 5:1–4 likewise directs speech toward thanksgiving within a life of love. Galatians 5:22–26 identifies love, patience, gentleness, and self-control as fruit of the Spirit. Depend on his work while practicing these qualities: hear patiently, speak truthfully, give needed help, and follow your words with faithful action.
Further study: A. K. M. Adam · Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Read the passages
Scripture in context
63 contextual selections for this subject, including the passages cited above and further related reading. Every selected range is reproduced in full from the KJV. Context notes identify the setting and kind of evidence.
Evaluated narrative 1 selections
Exodus 1:15–22 KJV
Context: Pharaoh’s command, the midwives’ fear of God and preservation of life, their answer, God’s favor, and a renewed death order form the scene.
1:15 And the king of Egypt spake to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah:
1:16 And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live.
1:17 But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.
1:18 And the king of Egypt called for the midwives, and said unto them, Why have ye done this thing, and have saved the men children alive?
1:19 And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.
1:20 Therefore God dealt well with the midwives: and the people multiplied, and waxed very mighty.
1:21 And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.
1:22 And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born ye shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive.
Covenant law 5 selections
Exodus 22:7–13 KJV
Context: Case laws about entrusted property include the oath of the LORD when an animal’s loss has no witness.
22:7 If a man shall deliver unto his neighbour money or stuff to keep, and it be stolen out of the man’s house; if the thief be found, let him pay double.
22:8 If the thief be not found, then the master of the house shall be brought unto the judges, to see whether he have put his hand unto his neighbour’s goods.
22:9 For all manner of trespass, whether it be for ox, for ass, for sheep, for raiment, or for any manner of lost thing, which another challengeth to be his, the cause of both parties shall come before the judges; and whom the judges shall condemn, he shall pay double unto his neighbour.
22:10 If a man deliver unto his neighbour an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driven away, no man seeing it:
22:11 Then shall an oath of the LORD be between them both, that he hath not put his hand unto his neighbour’s goods; and the owner of it shall accept thereof, and he shall not make it good.
22:12 And if it be stolen from him, he shall make restitution unto the owner thereof.
22:13 If it be torn in pieces, then let him bring it for witness, and he shall not make good that which was torn.
Exodus 23:1–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Israel’s case laws address reports, witnesses, partiality, enemy assistance, bribes, and strangers.
23:1 Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness.
23:2 Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment:
23:3 Neither shalt thou countenance a poor man in his cause.
23:4 If thou meet thine enemy’s ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.
23:5 If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.
23:6 Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.
23:7 Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked.
23:8 And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.
23:9 Also thou shalt not oppress a stranger: for ye know the heart of a stranger, seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.
Leviticus 19:9–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: Provision for the poor leads into honest dealing, oaths, vulnerability, judgment, correction, and neighbor love.
19:9 And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest.
19:10 And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the LORD your God.
19:11 Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another.
19:12 And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.
19:13 Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.
19:14 Thou shalt not curse the deaf, nor put a stumblingblock before the blind, but shalt fear thy God: I am the LORD.
19:15 Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.
19:16 Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD.
19:17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.
19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
Numbers 30:1–16 KJV
Context: The full chapter begins with a man’s vow and regulates women’s vows in specified household relationships, including widowed and divorced women.
30:1 And Moses spake unto the heads of the tribes concerning the children of Israel, saying, This is the thing which the LORD hath commanded.
30:2 If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.
30:3 If a woman also vow a vow unto the LORD, and bind herself by a bond, being in her father’s house in her youth;
30:4 And her father hear her vow, and her bond wherewith she hath bound her soul, and her father shall hold his peace at her: then all her vows shall stand, and every bond wherewith she hath bound her soul shall stand.
30:5 But if her father disallow her in the day that he heareth; not any of her vows, or of her bonds wherewith she hath bound her soul, shall stand: and the LORD shall forgive her, because her father disallowed her.
30:6 And if she had at all an husband, when she vowed, or uttered ought out of her lips, wherewith she bound her soul;
30:7 And her husband heard it, and held his peace at her in the day that he heard it: then her vows shall stand, and her bonds wherewith she bound her soul shall stand.
30:8 But if her husband disallowed her on the day that he heard it; then he shall make her vow which she vowed, and that which she uttered with her lips, wherewith she bound her soul, of none effect: and the LORD shall forgive her.
30:9 But every vow of a widow, and of her that is divorced, wherewith they have bound their souls, shall stand against her.
30:10 And if she vowed in her husband’s house, or bound her soul by a bond with an oath;
30:11 And her husband heard it, and held his peace at her, and disallowed her not: then all her vows shall stand, and every bond wherewith she bound her soul shall stand.
30:12 But if her husband hath utterly made them void on the day he heard them; then whatsoever proceeded out of her lips concerning her vows, or concerning the bond of her soul, shall not stand: her husband hath made them void; and the LORD shall forgive her.
30:13 Every vow, and every binding oath to afflict the soul, her husband may establish it, or her husband may make it void.
30:14 But if her husband altogether hold his peace at her from day to day; then he establisheth all her vows, or all her bonds, which are upon her: he confirmeth them, because he held his peace at her in the day that he heard them.
30:15 But if he shall any ways make them void after that he hath heard them; then he shall bear her iniquity.
30:16 These are the statutes, which the LORD commanded Moses, between a man and his wife, between the father and his daughter, being yet in her youth in her father’s house.
Deuteronomy 23:21–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete short law on vows distinguishes abstaining from a vow and performing a voluntary commitment.
23:21 When thou shalt vow a vow unto the LORD thy God, thou shalt not slack to pay it: for the LORD thy God will surely require it of thee; and it would be sin in thee.
23:22 But if thou shalt forbear to vow, it shall be no sin in thee.
23:23 That which is gone out of thy lips thou shalt keep and perform; even a freewill offering, according as thou hast vowed unto the LORD thy God, which thou hast promised with thy mouth.
Covenant and sacrificial law 1 selections
Leviticus 5:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: Cases including silence by a witness and rash oaths are followed by confession and offerings, with provision for poverty.
5:1 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.
5:2 Or if a soul touch any unclean thing, whether it be a carcase of an unclean beast, or a carcase of unclean cattle, or the carcase of unclean creeping things, and if it be hidden from him; he also shall be unclean, and guilty.
5:3 Or if he touch the uncleanness of man, whatsoever uncleanness it be that a man shall be defiled withal, and it be hid from him; when he knoweth of it, then he shall be guilty.
5:4 Or if a soul swear, pronouncing with his lips to do evil, or to do good, whatsoever it be that a man shall pronounce with an oath, and it be hid from him; when he knoweth of it, then he shall be guilty in one of these.
5:5 And it shall be, when he shall be guilty in one of these things, that he shall confess that he hath sinned in that thing:
5:6 And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD for his sin which he hath sinned, a female from the flock, a lamb or a kid of the goats, for a sin offering; and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his sin.
5:7 And if he be not able to bring a lamb, then he shall bring for his trespass, which he hath committed, two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the LORD; one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering.
5:8 And he shall bring them unto the priest, who shall offer that which is for the sin offering first, and wring off his head from his neck, but shall not divide it asunder:
5:9 And he shall sprinkle of the blood of the sin offering upon the side of the altar; and the rest of the blood shall be wrung out at the bottom of the altar: it is a sin offering.
5:10 And he shall offer the second for a burnt offering, according to the manner: and the priest shall make an atonement for him for his sin which he hath sinned, and it shall be forgiven him.
5:11 But if he be not able to bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he that sinned shall bring for his offering the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering; he shall put no oil upon it, neither shall he put any frankincense thereon: for it is a sin offering.
5:12 Then shall he bring it to the priest, and the priest shall take his handful of it, even a memorial thereof, and burn it on the altar, according to the offerings made by fire unto the LORD: it is a sin offering.
5:13 And the priest shall make an atonement for him as touching his sin that he hath sinned in one of these, and it shall be forgiven him: and the remnant shall be the priest’s, as a meat offering.
Conquest narrative 1 selections
Joshua 2:1–24 KJV
Context: The full reconnaissance account includes Rahab’s concealment and false report, confession of the LORD, negotiated oath, escape, and the spies’ report.
2:1 And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot’s house, named Rahab, and lodged there.
2:2 And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country.
2:3 And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country.
2:4 And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were:
2:5 And it came to pass about the time of shutting of the gate, when it was dark, that the men went out: whither the men went I wot not: pursue after them quickly; for ye shall overtake them.
2:6 But she had brought them up to the roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax, which she had laid in order upon the roof.
2:7 And the men pursued after them the way to Jordan unto the fords: and as soon as they which pursued after them were gone out, they shut the gate.
2:8 And before they were laid down, she came up unto them upon the roof;
2:9 And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.
2:10 For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed.
2:11 And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath.
2:12 Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token:
2:13 And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death.
2:14 And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the LORD hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.
2:15 Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall.
2:16 And she said unto them, Get you to the mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; and hide yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be returned: and afterward may ye go your way.
2:17 And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear.
2:18 Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’s household, home unto thee.
2:19 And it shall be, that whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy house into the street, his blood shall be upon his head, and we will be guiltless: and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his blood shall be on our head, if any hand be upon him.
2:20 And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us to swear.
2:21 And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.
2:22 And they went, and came unto the mountain, and abode there three days, until the pursuers were returned: and the pursuers sought them throughout all the way, but found them not.
2:23 So the two men returned, and descended from the mountain, and passed over, and came to Joshua the son of Nun, and told him all things that befell them:
2:24 And they said unto Joshua, Truly the LORD hath delivered into our hands all the land; for even all the inhabitants of the country do faint because of us.
Narrative 1 selections
Job 2:11–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: The arrival of the three friends ends the narrative prologue immediately before Job’s lament.
2:11 Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him.
2:12 And when they lifted up their eyes afar off, and knew him not, they lifted up their voice, and wept; and they rent every one his mantle, and sprinkled dust upon their heads toward heaven.
2:13 So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.
Divine evaluation within narrative 1 selections
Job 42:1–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Job responds to the LORD; God then rebukes the friends and directs their offering and Job’s prayer.
42:1 Then Job answered the LORD, and said,
42:2 I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee.
42:3 Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not.
42:4 Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me.
42:5 I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee.
42:6 Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.
42:7 And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.
42:8 Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.
42:9 So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the LORD commanded them: the LORD also accepted Job.
Worship and ethical poetry 1 selections
Psalms 15:1–5 KJV · In this guide
Context: The entire entrance-style psalm answers who may dwell with the LORD through upright, truthful, just conduct.
15:1 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
15:2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
15:3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
15:4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
15:5 He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.
Praise and prayer 1 selections
Psalms 19:1–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: The whole psalm moves from creation’s testimony to God’s instruction and a prayer concerning sins, heart, and mouth.
19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
19:2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
19:3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
19:4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
19:5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
19:6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
19:10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
19:11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
19:12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
19:13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
Prayer poetry 1 selections
Psalms 141:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete prayer joins worship, guarded speech, the heart, welcome of correction, and dependence amid danger.
141:1 LORD, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto thee.
141:2 Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.
141:3 Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
141:4 Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.
141:5 Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities.
141:6 When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words; for they are sweet.
141:7 Our bones are scattered at the grave’s mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth wood upon the earth.
141:8 But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute.
141:9 Keep me from the snares which they have laid for me, and the gins of the workers of iniquity.
141:10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I withal escape.
Wisdom sayings 10 selections
Proverbs 11:9–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete neighboring sayings place destructive speech, the city’s good, restraint, confidentiality, and counsel together.
11:9 An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.
11:10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.
11:11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
11:12 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
11:13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.
11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Proverbs 12:15–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete wisdom sayings place counsel, restraint, truthful testimony, healing words, and trustworthy conduct together.
12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.
12:16 A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.
12:17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.
12:18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.
12:19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
12:20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.
12:21 There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.
12:22 Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.
12:23 A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
Proverbs 15:1–7 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete sayings address answers, knowledge, God’s sight, a life-giving tongue, correction, and the wise distribution of knowledge.
15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
15:2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
15:3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.
15:4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.
15:5 A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
15:6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.
15:7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.
Proverbs 15:22–33 KJV · In this guide
Context: A sequence of complete sayings includes counsel, timing, thoughtful answers, hearing correction, and humility.
15:22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
15:23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!
15:24 The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
15:25 The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.
15:26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.
15:27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
15:28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.
15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.
15:30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.
15:31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.
15:32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
15:33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 17:27–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: Two paired sayings concern restrained words and the appearance of wisdom in silence.
Proverbs 18:13–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete neighboring sayings on hearing, the spirit, learning, access, and examination; their distinct subjects remain intact.
18:13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
18:14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?
18:15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
18:16 A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
18:17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.
Proverbs 18:18–21 KJV
Context: Contention and offended relationships precede two sayings about eating the fruit of one’s speech and its life-or-death consequences.
18:18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.
18:19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
18:20 A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.
18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
Proverbs 25:8–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: Counsel about disputes and confidence is followed by fitting words, receptive correction, reliable messages, and patient persuasion.
25:8 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.
25:9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:
25:10 Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.
25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
25:12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
25:13 As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.
25:14 Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain.
25:15 By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.
Proverbs 26:1–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete opening cluster on folly includes both commands about answers and ends with self-conceit.
26:1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
26:2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.
26:3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool’s back.
26:4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
26:6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
26:7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
26:8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.
26:9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
26:10 The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.
26:11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.
26:12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
Proverbs 27:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete sayings on boasting, anger, rebuke, appetite, and friendship include faithful wounds and heartfelt counsel.
27:1 Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.
27:2 Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.
27:3 A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool’s wrath is heavier than them both.
27:4 Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
27:5 Open rebuke is better than secret love.
27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
27:7 The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
27:8 As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.
27:9 Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel.
27:10 Thine own friend, and thy father’s friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother’s house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.
Wisdom sayings and imagery 1 selections
Proverbs 16:20–24 KJV · In this guide
Context: Neighboring sayings join trust, wisdom of heart, instructive lips, and pleasant words.
16:20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.
16:21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.
16:22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.
16:23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Royal instruction 1 selections
Proverbs 31:1–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Lemuel’s mother instructs a king about responsibilities and the vulnerable people whose causes he must judge.
31:1 The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.
31:2 What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?
31:3 Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.
31:4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:
31:5 Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.
31:6 Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.
31:7 Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.
31:8 Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.
31:9 Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
Wisdom poem and reflection 1 selections
Ecclesiastes 3:1–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: The poem of times is followed by reflection on God’s work, human limits, enjoyment, and reverence.
3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
3:2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3:3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
3:4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
3:5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
3:6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
3:7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
3:8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
3:9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
3:10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.
3:11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
3:12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.
3:13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
3:14 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.
3:15 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.
Wisdom instruction 1 selections
Ecclesiastes 5:1–7 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete worship unit moves from hearing to words before God, vows, excuses, and reverence.
5:1 Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.
5:2 Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
5:3 For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool’s voice is known by multitude of words.
5:4 When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.
5:5 Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay.
5:6 Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?
5:7 For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also divers vanities: but fear thou God.
Prophetic promise and instruction 1 selections
Zechariah 8:9–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: Restoration oracles address the temple-building community, promise good to Judah and Jerusalem, require truth and justice, and anticipate nations seeking the LORD.
8:9 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built.
8:10 For before these days there was no hire for man, nor any hire for beast; neither was there any peace to him that went out or came in because of the affliction: for I set all men every one against his neighbour.
8:11 But now I will not be unto the residue of this people as in the former days, saith the LORD of hosts.
8:12 For the seed shall be prosperous; the vine shall give her fruit, and the ground shall give her increase, and the heavens shall give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these things.
8:13 And it shall come to pass, that as ye were a curse among the heathen, O house of Judah, and house of Israel; so will I save you, and ye shall be a blessing: fear not, but let your hands be strong.
8:14 For thus saith the LORD of hosts; As I thought to punish you, when your fathers provoked me to wrath, saith the LORD of hosts, and I repented not:
8:15 So again have I thought in these days to do well unto Jerusalem and to the house of Judah: fear ye not.
8:16 These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates:
8:17 And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith the LORD.
8:18 And the word of the LORD of hosts came unto me, saying,
8:19 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; The fast of the fourth month, and the fast of the fifth, and the fast of the seventh, and the fast of the tenth, shall be to the house of Judah joy and gladness, and cheerful feasts; therefore love the truth and peace.
8:20 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities:
8:21 And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also.
8:22 Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD.
8:23 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.
Jesus’ instruction 2 selections
Matthew 5:21–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus addresses murder, anger, contempt, reconciliation before offering, and urgent settlement with an adversary.
5:21 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:
5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;
5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
5:25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.
5:26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
Matthew 5:33–37 KJV · In this guide
Context: The full oath instruction within the Sermon on the Mount moves from earlier law to prohibition, reasons, and truthful yes/no.
5:33 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:
5:34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne:
5:35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.
5:36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.
5:37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
Gospel controversy and teaching 1 selections
Matthew 12:22–37 KJV · In this guide
Context: The healing and demonic accusation prompt Jesus’ answer about God’s kingdom, blasphemy, the tree and fruit, and accountable words.
12:22 Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw.
12:23 And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David?
12:24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.
12:25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:
12:26 And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?
12:27 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges.
12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.
12:29 Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.
12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
12:31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
12:32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
12:33 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit.
12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
12:37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Instruction to disciples 1 selections
Matthew 18:15–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: Restoration begins privately and moves through witnesses to the church if the person refuses to hear; communal authority and Jesus’ presence follow.
18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
18:16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
18:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
18:18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
18:19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Prophetic rebuke by Jesus 1 selections
Matthew 23:16–22 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete woe against blind guides concerns distinctions between objects invoked in binding and nonbinding oaths.
23:16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!
23:17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
23:18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.
23:19 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?
23:20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.
23:21 And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.
23:22 And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon.
Passion narrative 3 selections
Matthew 26:57–68 KJV
Context: The trial scene includes false witnesses, silence, the high priest’s adjuration, Jesus’ answer, and condemnation.
26:57 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.
26:58 But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.
26:59 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;
26:60 But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,
26:61 And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.
26:62 And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?
26:63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
26:64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
26:65 Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.
26:66 What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.
26:67 Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands,
26:68 Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?
Mark 14:53–65 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus’ trial before the council includes inconsistent testimony, silence, his messianic answer, condemnation, and abuse.
14:53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes.
14:54 And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.
14:55 And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none.
14:56 For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together.
14:57 And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying,
14:58 We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.
14:59 But neither so did their witness agree together.
14:60 And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?
14:61 But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?
14:62 And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
14:63 Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any further witnesses?
14:64 Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death.
14:65 And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.
John 18:19–24 KJV · In this guide
Context: Questioning about Jesus’ teaching leads to his appeal to hearers, an officer’s blow, his challenge, and transfer to Caiaphas.
18:19 The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.
18:20 Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.
18:21 Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said.
18:22 And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so?
18:23 Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?
18:24 Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest.
Tragic narrative 1 selections
Mark 6:14–29 KJV · In this guide
Context: Herod’s reaction to Jesus introduces the full account of John’s imprisonment, the banquet oath, execution, and burial.
6:14 And king Herod heard of him; (for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.
6:15 Others said, That it is Elias. And others said, That it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets.
6:16 But when Herod heard thereof, he said, It is John, whom I beheaded: he is risen from the dead.
6:17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife: for he had married her.
6:18 For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother’s wife.
6:19 Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not:
6:20 For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.
6:21 And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee;
6:22 And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee.
6:23 And he sware unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom.
6:24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.
6:25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.
6:26 And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath’s sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her.
6:27 And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison,
6:28 And brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel: and the damsel gave it to her mother.
6:29 And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.
Evaluated ministry narrative 1 selections
Acts 18:24–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete Apollos episode preserves ability, limited knowledge, fuller instruction, reception, and fruitful ministry.
18:24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
18:25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
18:26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.
18:27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:
18:28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Shared Christian instruction 7 selections
Romans 12:9–21 KJV · In this guide
Context: Genuine love, shared joy and grief, blessing of persecutors, peace, and practical care for enemies conclude the chapter.
12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
12:12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
12:13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
12:14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
12:16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
12:20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Galatians 5:22–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: The Spirit’s fruit, belonging to Christ, walking by the Spirit, and the rejection of provocation close the chapter.
5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
5:24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
Galatians 6:1–5 KJV · In this guide
Context: Gentle restoration, burden-bearing, humility, and personal accountability form the paragraph.
6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
6:3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
6:5 For every man shall bear his own burden.
Ephesians 5:1–7 KJV · In this guide
Context: Christ’s love grounds holiness; unfit speech is replaced by thanksgiving, and deception about evil is exposed.
5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
5:3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
5:4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
5:5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
5:6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
5:7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.
James 3:13–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: The question of wisdom follows the tongue passage and contrasts envy and rivalry with wisdom from above.
3:13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
3:14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
3:15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.
3:16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
3:18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
James 4:11–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: Speech against a brother is judged by God’s unique authority; presumptuous planning is answered by dependence and doing known good.
4:11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
4:12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
4:13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
4:15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
4:16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
James 5:7–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: Patience until the Lord’s coming, restraint in grumbling, the prophets and Job, and truthful yes/no are linked by judgment.
5:7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
5:8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
5:9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.
5:10 Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.
5:11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.
5:12 But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.
Apostolic argument and description 1 selections
1 Corinthians 13:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete love chapter belongs within Paul’s treatment of gifts and the community’s good.
13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
13:2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
13:3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
13:7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
13:11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
Apostolic explanation of particular conduct 1 selections
2 Corinthians 1:12–2:4 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul defends sincere conduct, explains proposed travel and its alteration, appeals to God as witness, and explains his loving aim.
1:12 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
1:13 For we write none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to the end;
1:14 As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.
1:15 And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you before, that ye might have a second benefit;
1:16 And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia unto you, and of you to be brought on my way toward Judaea.
1:17 When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay?
1:18 But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.
1:19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.
1:20 For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.
1:21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;
1:22 Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
1:23 Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.
1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.
2:1 But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness.
2:2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?
2:3 And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.
2:4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.
Apostolic exhortation and explanation 1 selections
Ephesians 4:1–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: Unity in the Spirit, Christ’s gifts, and the body’s maturity lead to truth in love and each part’s contribution.
4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
4:3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4:4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
4:5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
4:6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
4:8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
4:9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
4:10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Apostolic exhortation 2 selections
Ephesians 4:17–5:2 KJV · In this guide
Context: Renewal after learning Christ leads into truth, anger, work, speech, forgiveness, and the concluding command to walk in Christ’s love.
4:17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
4:18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
4:19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
4:20 But ye have not so learned Christ;
4:21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:
4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
4:23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
4:25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
4:27 Neither give place to the devil.
4:28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
Colossians 3:1–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: Life with the risen Christ grounds putting off old deeds and putting on renewed conduct, mutual teaching, worship, and thanks.
3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
3:3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
3:5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
3:6 For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
3:7 In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
3:8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
3:9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
3:10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
3:11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
3:17 And what soever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Apostolic instruction 1 selections
Colossians 4:2–6 KJV · In this guide
Context: Prayer for clear proclamation leads to wise conduct and gracious replies to outsiders.
4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
4:3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:
4:4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
Apostolic teaching and exhortation 2 selections
1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete paragraph addresses the believing dead, Christ’s resurrection and coming, and mutual comfort.
4:13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
4:14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
4:15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
4:17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
1 Thessalonians 5:1–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: Teaching about the day of the Lord leads to watchfulness, hope, mutual edification, leaders, differentiated care, and patience.
5:1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
5:4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.
5:5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
5:7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.
5:8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.
5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
5:10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
5:13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
Instruction to a minister 1 selections
2 Timothy 2:22–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: Timothy is directed to pursue virtue with believers and to teach opponents patiently in hope of God-given repentance.
2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
2:23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
Scriptural exposition and exhortation 1 selections
Hebrews 3:7–19 KJV · In this guide
Context: Psalm 95 is cited and applied through a sustained warning about the wilderness generation’s unbelief.
3:7 Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,
3:8 Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:
3:9 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.
3:10 Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.
3:11 So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)
3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;
3:15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.
3:16 For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses.
3:17 But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?
3:18 And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?
3:19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.
Theological argument 1 selections
Hebrews 6:13–20 KJV
Context: God’s promise and oath to Abraham ground encouragement, hope, and Jesus’ priesthood.
6:13 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself,
6:14 Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.
6:15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
6:16 For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife.
6:17 Where in God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:
6:18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
6:19 Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;
6:20 Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
Christian exhortation 1 selections
Hebrews 10:19–25 KJV · In this guide
Context: Access through Jesus and his priesthood grounds drawing near, holding hope, gathering, and provoking love and good works.
10:19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
10:20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
10:21 And having an high priest over the house of God;
10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Retrospective examples of faith 1 selections
Hebrews 11:30–31 KJV
Context: Two adjacent examples concern the fall of Jericho and Rahab’s reception of the spies in peace.
Shared Christian exhortation 1 selections
James 1:12–27 KJV · In this guide
Context: Trials, desire, and God’s good giving lead into reception of the word, hearing and doing, and concrete faithful conduct.
1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
1:23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
1:24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.
1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Apostolic argument 1 selections
James 2:14–26 KJV
Context: The full faith-and-works argument includes material care, Abraham, Rahab’s reception and sending of messengers, and the body/spirit comparison.
2:14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
2:15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
2:16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?
2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
2:18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
2:19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
2:20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
2:21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
2:22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
2:24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
2:25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Shared exhortation with a teacher-specific opening 1 selections
James 3:1–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: Teachers’ accountability and universal stumbling lead into controlling and destructive images and the inconsistency of blessing and cursing.
3:1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
3:2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
3:3 Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.
3:4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.
3:5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
3:6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
3:7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:
3:8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
3:9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
3:10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
3:11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?
3:12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.
Apostolic exhortation and Christological explanation 1 selections
1 Peter 3:8–22 KJV · In this guide
Context: Community compassion, blessing, the Psalm 34 citation, and readiness to answer amid suffering lead into Christ’s suffering and exaltation.
3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
3:9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
3:10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
3:11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
3:13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?
3:14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
3:16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
3:19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
3:20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
3:22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
Apostolic teaching and assurance 1 selections
1 John 1:5–2:2 KJV · In this guide
Context: God’s light exposes false claims about sin; cleansing, confession, advocacy, and Christ’s sacrifice provide the answer.
1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1:10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
Go deeper
Sources & interpretation
The teaching starts with the cited Scripture. These consulted works inform wording, context, and interpretive questions. No qualified human review has been recorded for this guide.
How far does the prohibition of oaths extend?
Matthew 5:34 says not to swear at all and James 5:12 includes any other oath. Exodus 22:11 prescribes an oath in a particular legal case. Hebrews 6:13–20 describes divine assurance and human oath practice. Paul calls God as witness in 2 Corinthians 1:23. Matthew 26:63–64 records Jesus answering an adjuration without a separate oath formula.
- The broad prohibition rules out every oath for disciples; Paul’s appeals and Jesus’ response are distinguished from swearing or read as separate issues.
- Solemn truthful oaths remain permissible, while evasive or ordinary oath-supported speech is prohibited; Doriani argues this by canonical comparison.
- Keener emphasizes integrity and takes the early Christian appeals as evidence that the absolute wording has a rhetorical force, while observing their restraint from overt oaths.
VERY_STRONG for plain truthfulness and a prohibition that reaches beyond false oaths. UNCERTAIN on a universal permission or prohibition of every formal oath: the competing readings need to account for all the evidence. The guide quotes Jesus directly, teaches dependable ordinary speech, and does not assign the owner a denominational policy. The law’s household regulations and God’s own oath are not automatically new commands to Christians.
Further study: Craig S. Keener · Daniel M. Doriani · Francois P. Viljoen
Further examination: What explains the breadth of Matthew 5:34 and James 5:12 while accounting for 2 Corinthians 1:23? Is answering an adjuration the same act as swearing, and what can a description of God’s oath establish for human conduct?
How can the neighboring commands about answering a fool both guide speech?
Proverbs 26:4–5 repeats the response wording and attaches different reasons: becoming like the fool or leaving him wise in his own eyes. The wider cluster also concerns the bad use of proverbs by fools.
- Different occasions call for refraining or responding.
- A response can address folly while refusing to imitate its reasoning or conduct.
- A proposed prepositional emendation or fixed secular/religious distinction resolves the surface contrast.
PROBABLE: the first two accounts together preserve the written pair and its stated purposes. The main teaching does not require an emendation or an unstated classification of subjects. The sayings teach discernment, not a label permitting contempt for a disagreeing person.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: How does each reason constrain a proposed answer? What would make a response clarify foolishness while remaining faithful in its own manner?
What kind of power do words have, and what does James mean by an untamable tongue?
James describes direction, spreading harm, poison, inconsistent worship, and human inability to tame the tongue, then commands a different pattern and commends wisdom from above. Proverbs 18:20–21 speaks of eating speech’s fruit. First Peter includes suffering even while doing good.
- Words have important relational and moral consequences; human self-sufficiency cannot secure their perfect control, yet faithful growth is required.
- Words by themselves create whatever outcome a speaker declares.
- The inability to tame the tongue makes the commands impossible to pursue or morally irrelevant.
STRONG for the first account. The second imports a power not explained by these texts; the third ignores James 3:10 and 3:13–18. The precise course-of-nature image in 3:6 is left secondary; the clear fire comparison is enough for the main argument. Proverbs describes wisdom’s life-giving pattern without guaranteeing every hearer’s behavior.
Further study: A. K. M. Adam · Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: Which effects are actually described by the bit, helm, fire, fruit, and spring images? How does the command in James 3:10 shape the response to verse 8?
How should protective concealment and difficult narratives be weighed alongside truthful speech?
Proverbs commends protecting confidence and Leviticus requires a witness to speak. Exodus 1 explicitly commends the midwives’ fear of God and preservation of life without independently establishing every circumstance behind their answer. Joshua 2 records Rahab’s false report as well as her confession of the LORD. Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25 commend her reception and aid of the messengers.
- Protecting life can justify deceptive speech in exceptional conflicts; some infer this from the positively evaluated deliverance narratives.
- The rescue and faith are commended, while the deception is not itself approved; truthful refusal or silence remains distinct from lying.
- Every positively evaluated person’s reported action supplies a universal rule for speech.
STRONG that confidentiality and required testimony must be distinguished, and that narrative commendation cannot simply authorize every reported action. UNCERTAIN here about a comprehensive ethic for all cases of protective deception. Keener mentions exceptions but his separate supporting work was not inspected, so his assertion is not adopted as established. The main guide teaches the explicit duties without forcing threatened persons into an unrestricted disclosure rule.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Craig S. Keener
Further examination: Precisely which actions does each narrator or later biblical writer commend? How can both the duty to protect a neighbor and the command to speak truth be retained without treating any one narrative as an automatic exception for ordinary dishonesty?
How do correction, privacy, and the warning against judging a brother fit together?
James 4:11–12 subjects the speaker to God’s law. Leviticus 19:17–18 joins rebuke with love; Matthew 18:15–20 seeks restoration and allows increasing involvement. Galatians 6 commands gentle restoration with self-examination.
- The warning against judgment forbids identifying any wrong conduct.
- Correction remains required where these passages direct it, while slander and self-appointed condemnation violate the law under which the corrector also stands.
- Every fault must first be handled privately regardless of its public character or other responsibilities.
STRONG for the second account. The article does not turn a church-restoration passage into a complete policy for legal testimony or every public offense. Specific civil obligations and church procedures exceed this guide’s task; its main responsibilities remain clear.
Further examination: What does each passage say correction is for, who is being addressed, and what role do truth, witnesses, self-examination, and the other person’s restoration play?
- Commentary on James 1:17–27
Margaret Aymer · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2018-09-02
Connects the word of truth, speech, hearing/doing, and care; argues for reading verses 17–18 with 12–18.
What was reviewed
Complete online commentary body, from the opening discussion of the selected unit through the concluding question about Christian life. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Her proposed mirror contrast and the precise identification of the law of liberty are not premises of this guide. Cited or implied external works were not read.
- Ephesians: The New Way of Life Versus the Old; The New Creation Walk in Love
S. M. Baugh · The Gospel Coalition Bible Commentary
Insists that 5:1–2 completes the ethical unit and relates conduct to Christ’s transforming work.
What was reviewed
Sections on Ephesians 4:17–24 and 4:25–5:2, including his translation and rationale for the old/new-person clauses; not the complete commentary. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
His indicative reading of 4:22–24 is argued rather than uncontested. This guide can explain renewal and truthfulness without making that grammatical dispute decisive. His cited Chrysostom text was not independently inspected.
- NET Bible: Colossians 4:6, translation comparison
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Confirms the gracious-speech and individual-answer wording used alongside the pinned KJV.
What was reviewed
NET verse rendering and comparison renderings; the displayed numbered-notes field was empty. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Translation comparison only. It supplies no inspected scholarly argument deciding the precise salt metaphor; that inference remains qualified.
- NET Bible: Proverbs 26:4–5, translator and study notes
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible / Bible Gateway · 2017 displayed copyright edition
Compares different occasions and different manners of answering; discusses but does not require a proposed change of preposition.
What was reviewed
Both verses and all four footnotes on the accessible Bible Gateway page. Classic NET 26:4 was also read; later Classic NET 26:5 requests timed out. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Greenstone, Plaut, Waltke, BHS and rabbinic works cited by the notes were not independently consulted. No emendation is applied to the pinned KJV.
- English Standard Version: 1 Thessalonians 5:14
Crossway / ESV translation team · ESV / YouVersion
Checks the older KJV feebleminded against fainthearted so the instruction is understood as encouragement of those needing courage.
What was reviewed
Complete displayed ESV verse, compared directly with pinned KJV 1 Thessalonians 5:14 and its surrounding 5:1–15 unit. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Translation comparison only; no independently inspected lexicon or commentary is claimed. The modern wording is explained, not substituted into the KJV passage display.
- NET Bible: Leviticus 5:1, notes 1–5
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Clarifies the KJV voice of swearing in a witness setting and places the case within 5:1–13.
What was reviewed
Verse rendering and all five numbered notes, including the supplied words identifying the public call to testify. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Milgrom is cited by the note and was not read. The expanded wording is the translators’ interpretation, not extra wording silently inserted into the KJV.
- Matthew: Oaths Are a Poor Substitute for Integrity (5:33–37)
Craig S. Keener · IVP New Testament Commentary Series / Bible Gateway
Explains the objects named in oaths through God’s ownership; emphasizes integrity and distinguishes oath-like appeals by early Christians.
What was reviewed
Complete online subsection on 5:33–37, paragraphs beginning with Jesus’ citation of Scripture through the closing discussion of early Christian appeals to God. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
This subsection, not the whole book, was read. Ancient sources and Keener’s cited work on deception were not independently inspected. His broad cultural generalizations and modern illustrations are not adopted.
- Did Jesus Forbid Us from Taking Oaths? (Matthew 5)
Daniel M. Doriani · Crossway; adapted from ESV Expository Commentary: Matthew–Luke · 2022-01-12
Argues that solemn oaths can be permitted by comparing divine oaths, Jesus’ adjuration scene, and Paul’s appeals; distinguishes cost from a promise requiring sin.
What was reviewed
Complete publisher article, including The Purpose of Oaths, The Twisting of Oaths, Jesus’s Expectation for His Followers, Owning Our Words, and notes 1–4. Accessed 2026-09-25.
His claims about all rabbis or modern children are not adopted. The underlying commentary volume, Mishnah, and Stott were not independently read. The inference from God’s action or Jesus’ answer to general permission remains evaluated.
- Jesus’ halakhic argumentation on the true intention of the law in Matthew 5:21–48
Francois P. Viljoen · Verbum et Ecclesia 34(1), article 682; DOI 10.4102/ve.v34i1.682 · 2013
Reads the prohibition through the higher righteousness of disciples and compares how interpreters relate it to Torah.
What was reviewed
Abstract and Introduction; oath subsection from its opening through the paragraph on thoroughly reliable statements and unnecessary oaths. Publisher HTML recovered directly after intermittent web-tool timeout; rest of the article not credited. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Partial article. Quoted scholars and rabbinic texts were not independently read. The section contains a Psalm 54:14 locator inconsistency; it is not repeated as evidence. The generalization about Jewish oath practice is not made an article premise.
- Commentary on James 3:1–12
A. K. M. Adam · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2009-09-13
Highlights teachers’ accountability and coherent faith expressed in speech; cautions about overprecise explanations of difficult images.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body including teachers, verbal mistakes, figurative difficulties, divine likeness, and the closing rejection of resignation. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The guide explains the clear function of the comparisons without adopting his judgment that the animal-taming statement is apparently false or claiming to have read his ancient parallels.
- NET Bible: James 3:1, translation and notes 1–2
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Clarifies the KJV masters as teachers and greater condemnation as stricter judgment.
What was reviewed
Displayed translation and both numbered notes. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
A translation and brief notes, not independent manuscript or lexical research.
- NET Bible: James 3:13–18, translator notes
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible / Bible Gateway · 2017 displayed copyright edition
Clarifies conduct, gentleness, and openness to persuasion; retains the grammatical alternatives for the peace-making conclusion.
What was reviewed
Complete six-verse rendering and all ten footnotes. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
The notes do not settle all possible meanings of the wisdom list. No claim of lexical consensus or a separate lexicon reading.