Yes or No

Such a simple verse, but it carries a lot of weight. Why is purely having a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response essential? This comes from Jesus’ teaching regarding oaths.  If you are to agree to something by saying ‘yes,’ this is something of obligation to keep. If it's a ‘no,’ you are not obligated to keep. Both have clear and practical implications. This concept of an oath is impossible to guarantee to come true. Jesus points to this by saying “And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black” (Matthew 5:36). As we are finate and imperfect beings living in a fallen world, we don’t know what can happen.

This concept of keeping things simple is a means of maintaining truth and integrity in our dealings. It's often the case that relationships are broken or damaged due to broken promises and expectations. Jesus, knowing this reality, points to more than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ as something that comes from evil. The damage and the division that comes from breaking an oath or promise is the territory the enemy loves to thrive in. Now for us, we must be cautious with our words. If someone asks for a favor, say yes and do it, or say no and don’t. It is better to be clear than to be inconsistent. Let your yes be yes and your no be no.

Respond with any questions, prayer requests, or encouragement.

In Christ, 

Josh Hernandez