Chapter 11: Do Not Bear False Witness — Truth in an Age of Misinformation

Kingdom Ethics and the Ten Commandments Today

Relevance for the Church, Culture Wars, Law vs. Grace, and Christian Discipleship

This chapter focuses on the Ninth Commandment — “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour” (Exod. 20:16) — and its application for truthfulness, justice, and integrity in contemporary society.

1. Introduction

The Ninth Commandment states:

“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.”
— Exodus 20:16 (NRSV)

This commandment safeguards justice, reputation, and social trust. Kingdom ethics extend its relevance to truth-telling in speech, digital communication, media, and societal discourse, especially in an era of widespread misinformation, fake news, and online manipulation.

2. Historical and Cultural Context

2.1. Ancient Israel

  • False testimony could lead to wrongful conviction or social harm (Deut. 19:16–19)
  • Witnesses were expected to uphold truth for communal justice
  • Honouring truth was integral to covenant life (Lev. 19:11)

2.2. Covenant Ethics

Truthfulness reflects God’s character, as He is faithful and just (Num. 23:19). Bearing false witness undermines both divine and human justice.

3. Jesus and Truthfulness

Jesus reinforces the primacy of truth:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
— John 14:6

He also teaches that heart-level integrity matters, not just external compliance (Matt. 5:33–37). Kingdom ethics emphasise honesty, transparency, and moral courage.

4. Contemporary Challenges

4.1. Misinformation and Fake News

  • Digital media amplifies false narratives and deception
  • Kingdom discipleship calls believers to verify, discern, and speak truth

4.2. Gossip and Slander

  • False witness includes verbal and social attacks
  • Christians are called to rebuild trust, not destroy it (Eph. 4:29)

4.3. Institutional and Systemic Falsehood

  • Corruption, propaganda, and biased systems violate this commandment
  • Kingdom ethics urge advocacy for accountability and transparency

5. The Spirit and Truthfulness

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to:

  • Discern truth from falsehood (John 16:13)
  • Speak honestly and graciously (Col. 4:6)
  • Champion justice in interpersonal, institutional, and societal contexts

Truthfulness is thus both a moral and spiritual discipline.

6. Practical Applications

6.1. Personal Integrity

  • Avoid lying, exaggeration, or misrepresentation
  • Speak words that build up, not destroy
  • Commit to honest reflection and confession

6.2. Community Responsibility

  • Promote truth in church, workplace, and society
  • Educate and mentor younger generations in critical discernment
  • Engage in public dialogue with courage and humility

7. Conclusion

The Ninth Commandment protects relationships, reputation, and justice. Kingdom ethics call believers to be people of integrity, resisting deceit in all forms, and promoting truthfulness both online and offline.

“Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbour, for we are all members of one body.”
— Ephesians 4:25

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