Matthew 5:35 – “Or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus continues His teaching on the misuse of oaths, warning against swearing by earthly things such as the earth or Jerusalem. He emphasizes that these are not merely human or material objects; they are deeply connected to God’s sovereignty and presence. The earth is described as God’s footstool, signifying His authority over creation, and Jerusalem is called the city of the “Great King,” referring to God’s special relationship with His chosen people and His presence in the temple. Jesus’ point is that all oaths ultimately involve God, so people should avoid using them lightly or manipulatively.
Historical Context
In Jewish culture, oaths were often sworn by invoking sacred or significant things to give weight to one’s words. People might swear by the earth or Jerusalem as a way to avoid directly invoking God’s name while still making their statement seem trustworthy. However, these practices often led to deceit, as some viewed oaths made by created things as less binding. Jesus corrects this mindset, reminding His audience that all things are under God’s dominion and that swearing by them still involves Him.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s sovereignty and holiness. By reminding His audience that the earth is God’s footstool and Jerusalem is His city, Jesus reinforces that everything belongs to God and should be treated with reverence. It also points to the importance of integrity in speech, as every word is spoken in God’s presence. Truthfulness is not optional but a reflection of God’s character and His call to holiness for His people.
Literary Analysis
The imagery of the earth as God’s footstool and Jerusalem as the city of the Great King is poetic and symbolic. These descriptions elevate the importance of the created world and the city of Jerusalem, connecting them to God’s authority and majesty. By using these vivid metaphors, Jesus emphasizes that oaths involving these things are not separate from God but directly tied to Him.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 66:1: “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool.”
- Psalm 48:2: Jerusalem is described as the city of the Great King.
- Matthew 23:16-22: Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their manipulative use of oaths, swearing by the temple or altar.
- James 5:12: “Do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse challenges them to live with integrity and avoid making promises they don’t intend to keep. It also reminds believers that every word they speak is said in God’s presence and should reflect truth and honesty. By refraining from using oaths to manipulate or exaggerate, Christians can demonstrate trustworthiness and authenticity in all their interactions.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is reflected in His desire for His people to live in truth and integrity. By teaching against the misuse of oaths, He protects relationships from the harm caused by dishonesty and manipulation. God’s care for His creation and His special relationship with His people remind us of His faithfulness and call us to reflect that faithfulness in our own lives.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus embodies perfect truth and integrity. He never spoke deceitfully or made empty promises, and His teachings consistently called people to live in alignment with God’s will. Through His example, believers can learn to honor God in their words and actions. Jesus’ ultimate faithfulness in fulfilling God’s promises demonstrates the kind of truthfulness Christians are called to emulate.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge the way you approach honesty and commitments?
- Are there situations where you find it tempting to exaggerate or manipulate with your words?
- How can you ensure your speech reflects God’s character and honors His presence?
- What does this verse teach you about the significance of God’s sovereignty over creation and Jerusalem?
- How does Jesus’ example of integrity inspire you to live with greater honesty?
This verse invites believers to live with integrity and reverence for God’s sovereignty, ensuring that their words and actions align with His truth. It challenges Christians to speak honestly and to recognize the sacredness of God’s authority in every aspect of life.