Amelia Wilson 
Read the Verse of the Day – Deuteronomy 5:20 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
The Context of Deuteronomy 5:20 KJV
The Book of Deuteronomy is the fifth book in the Bible and part of the Torah. It is also known as the “second law” because it repeats and explains the laws given to Israel. Deuteronomy is a speech that Moses gave to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. The people were about to start a new life in a new land, and Moses wanted to remind them of God‘s laws.
In Deuteronomy chapter 5, Moses repeats the Ten Commandments. These commandments were first given in Exodus 20. They were written by God on tablets of stone and given to Moses on Mount Sinai. Now, Moses speaks them again to the new generation of Israelites who were children during the first giving of the law.
Deuteronomy 5:20 is the ninth commandment. It says:
Deuteronomy 5:20 (KJV)
“Neither shalt thou bear false witness against thy neighbour.”
This commandment teaches us how to treat others truthfully and fairly. It is a law that protects justice, honesty, and the peace of the community.
Deuteronomy 5:20 Meaning
To “bear false witness” means to lie about someone, especially in a legal setting. In ancient Israel, they did not have security cameras or digital records. They relied on witnesses in trials. If someone gave false testimony, it could ruin an innocent person’s life. A false witness could lead to punishment or even death for someone who did nothing wrong.
The command says “against thy neighbour.” This shows that God cares about our relationships with other people. He wants us to treat others the way we want to be treated. Your “neighbor” means not only the person who lives near you, but anyone you deal with in life. Lying about them is a serious sin.
This commandment goes beyond just the courtroom. It means we should not lie about others in any situation. It includes gossip, slander, and twisting the truth to harm someone. It teaches us to be honest, kind, and just in how we speak about others.
In the New Testament, Jesus repeated the importance of this commandment. In Matthew 19:18, when someone asked Jesus what commandments to follow, He included, “Thou shalt not bear false witness.” Paul also listed it in Romans 13:9 as part of loving your neighbor as yourself.
Deuteronomy 5:20 Application in Life
This commandment is still important today. God calls us to be truthful in all we do. Telling lies or speaking falsely about others goes against God’s will.
1. Be Honest in All Words
Whether we are at work, school, or with family, our words matter. We should always speak the truth. Avoid exaggerating, twisting facts, or saying things we are not sure are true. Telling the truth builds trust, while lying destroys it.
2. Avoid Gossip and Slander
Sometimes people talk behind others’ backs or spread rumors. This is also bearing false witness. Even if the story is true, repeating it in a harmful way can be wrong. We must be careful not to speak in ways that harm others or make them look bad.
3. Stand for Truth
There may be times when telling the truth is hard or costly. Still, God calls us to be people of integrity. Do not join in with lies or support wrong just to stay popular or safe. Stand up for what is right, even when it’s hard.
4. Teach Children the Value of Truth
Parents should teach their children that honesty matters. They learn by example. If they see their parents lie or make excuses, they may do the same. But if they see their parents tell the truth, even when it is difficult, they will learn to value truth.
5. Correct Mistakes
If we realize we have told something false, we should correct it. Admitting a mistake takes courage, but it shows we care about truth. Apologizing and making things right pleases God and helps repair relationships.
6. Examine Our Motives
Sometimes people lie because they want to look good, avoid trouble, or hurt others. We should ask ourselves why we say what we say. If our words are meant to protect ourselves or harm someone else unfairly, we are not living by this commandment.
Conclusion
Deuteronomy 5:20 is a short verse, but its meaning is deep. It reminds us that God values truth. He wants us to speak honestly and treat others fairly. Bearing false witness is not just a sin against another person, but a sin against God.
When we speak the truth, we reflect God’s character. God is truth, and His people should be truthful too. We must resist lies, gossip, and slander. We must be careful with our words and use them to bless, not to hurt.
Let us pray for God’s help to live by this commandment. Let us teach our children, encourage our friends, and set a good example. In a world full of lies, let us be people who love the truth. In doing so, we obey God and show His love to others.
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