Thread by @schweizercomics

Since we’re all talking about the Pledge of Allegiance, I think it’s important to note that some folks’ religion (including mine; I’m Christian) expressly forbids reciting it. Matthew 5:33-37, Jesus talking here: 1/11

"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.'
But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven… 2/11

“… for it is God's throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. (cont) 3/11

“All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No'; ANYTHING BEYOND THIS COMES FROM THE EVIL ONE.” 4/11

Now there are plenty of pro-pledge folks who will suggest that social context of the era means Jesus’s straight up NEVER DO THIS doesn’t apply to the Pledge of Allegiance or any other recited/stated oaths or pledges related to jobs, govt, etc, only interpersonal oaths. 5/11

(I'm miffed when I see this argument made by folks who otherwise refuse to address historical social context in regards to contemporary applicability of scripture) 6/11

Jesus gives no such exceptions here. I'd reckon a big part of his antipathy towards stated oaths is that he views them as public mummery, which certainly applies to a lot of civic pledges, and for which he generally has no patience. 7/11

You can say “I do” when asked if you take this person to be your spouse, or if you will swear to tell the whole truth and nothing but. But reciting the oath or pledge itself is expressly forbidden his followers by Jesus Christ. 8/11

This doesn’t even touch on the whole serving two masters thing – can you take an oath to a country if the country may someday run counter to the tenets of one’s faith? If so, you’re either willing to break an oath or abandon faith. 9/11

Anyway, free speech comes up a lot with Pledge of Allegiance stuff, but it’s also VERY MUCH a freedom of religion issue. 10/11

That’s all I’ve got to say about it! Keep in mind I'm that I sure as shine don't follow all of Jesus's commandments by a long shot so I certainly ain't casting shade or judgement on any Christian who chooses to ignore this particular commandment. 11/end