No Pinky Promises Needed: Jesus’ Words on Integrity

Sunday, March 02, 2025

In Matthew 5:33-37, Jesus challenges us to live with honesty and integrity. He teaches that we should not rely on oaths to prove our truthfulness but rather let our "yes" be yes and our "no" be no. Jesus calls for straightforward and sincere speech, free from manipulation or deceit. Our words should reflect the truth of our character, pointing to the God we serve. By living with integrity in what we say, we honor God, build trust with others, and live out the values of the Kingdom in everyday life.

Psalm 15:1–2,4 NIV1 Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? 2 The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart…who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind;

  • Pinky’s don’t keep Promises, Integrity does

1. Jesus  Honors  the God’s Words

Matthew 5:33 NIV33 “Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’

2. Jesus  EXPANDS  God’s Words

Matthew 5:34–36 NIV34 But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. 36 And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black.

3. Jesus highlights the  INTEGRITY  of God’s Words

Matthew 5:37 NIV37 All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

Integrity is when we can…

1. Be Honest — Speak truth in Love

2. Be Committed — Follow Through

3. Be Consistent — Match your Private & Public Life

4. Be Humble — Repent WHEN You Fail