Bible Discussion Thread

Verse 16, I think it is important to understand the context in which the word swear is used. There are different meanings to the word swear. Swear is not always the use of offensive language. When one promises to do something they are swearing to do it. However, even when one promises to do something does not mean that they actually can do it because of circumstances beyond their control. This verse is in the context of changing ones beliefs with understanding that yes, the Lord does live. The Lord is unveiling his strength and Bible scripture is being fulfilled. People that do not believe in Jesus are seeing the Bibles truth being revealed exactly as it was written. Jesus is saying understand this and then accept Jesus as Lord. The word swear is not the use of man swearing that he can accomplish something by his own will, strength or merit which are statements as Jesus referred to in Mt.5.34, but instead is a proclamation of the reality that the Lord is ALIVE, he lives and he is in control! Jesus states that man can accomplish nothing on his own that is not the will of God. This swear in verse 16 is pledging acceptance, allegiance and love for the Lord. These people are converts to the truth and leave their false beliefs that the Lord does not live, behind them. If they refuse to love with understanding and continue to hate then they will be destroyed as stated in verse 17.