Westminster Shorter Catechism · Question 77 of 107
What is required in the ninth commandment?
A.The ninth commandment requireth the maintaining and promoting of truth between man and man, and of our own and our neighbor’s good name, especially in witness-bearing.
Which Bible passages support this answer?
The Westminster Assembly attached these Scripture proofs to answer 77. Read them together and ask what each one shows about the answer.
- Zechariah 8:16
These are the things you must do: Speak the truth, each of you, to one another. Practice true and righteous judgment in your courts. (NET)
- 3 John 1:12
Demetrius has been testified to by all, even by the truth itself. We also testify to him, and you know that our testimony is true. (NET)
- Proverbs 14:5, 25
5A truthful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies. 25A truthful witness rescues lives, but one who testifies falsely betrays them. (NET)
What does this answer mean?
The ninth commandment requires maintaining and promoting truth between people, and protecting our own and our neighbor's good name, especially when we are called to bear witness. It asks for honest words everywhere, and for care with what we say about others.
What can we ask our children?
- What does it mean to promote the truth?
- How can we protect someone's good name?
- When might you be asked to be a witness at home or school?
Can I print this question?
Yes. Every printable here is free for home, church and co-op use. Press Print on any of these pages for a clean sheet.
- Memory card for question 77 (fold-over card, question on the front)
- Copywork page for question 77 (trace, then copy)
- Memory cards for questions 71 to 80
- Copywork for questions 71 to 80
- All Westminster Shorter Catechism printables
Text: The Shorter Catechism, constitutional text of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Public domain (1647). Proof references: Scripture proofs added by the Westminster Assembly, as transcribed by The Westminster Standard. Scripture quotations are from the NET Bible; see permissions.
Checked against a second edition on November 15, 2026. Explanation and questions by Household Theology Press. Last updated November 15, 2026.