Which practice is contrary to a Christian's trustworthiness and should be avoided?

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

Answer: (C)

Trustworthiness in a Christian life showing itself through truthful speech and keeping one’s word. Swearing oaths is singled out because it treats an ordinary promise as insufficient and requires a formal vow to be believed. The teaching is that a Christian’s word should be trustworthy without needing an oath; let your “Yes” be yes and your “No” be no, so truth undergirds every statement rather than a ritual promise.

Lying, bribery, and gossip clearly harm trust by deceit, corrupt motives, or spreading harm. The practice highlighted as to be avoided is the formal swearing of oaths, since it undermines the simplicity and reliability of truthful conduct that should characterize a trustworthy Christian witness.