______ is contrary to a Christian's trustworthiness and should be avoided.

• A. Swearing of Oaths
• B. Gossiping
• C. Lying
• D. Bribery

Answer: (A)

Trustworthiness in a Christian sense is shown by a consistently truthful and reliable character—your word should be enough. When someone keeps truth through a simple and honest "yes" or "no," there’s no need for an oath to compel honesty. Scripture teaches not to swear oaths, urging believers to let their word stand on integrity alone (for example, “Let your yes be yes, and your no, no” and similar admonitions). Therefore, swearing of oaths is contrary to genuine trustworthiness and should be avoided, since it relies on a formal vow rather than the steady honesty of a faithful life. The other behaviors listed—gossiping, lying, and bribery—are also harmful to trust, but the distinctive issue highlighted here is the tension between truthfulness and the reliance on an oath to validate it.