We sin, 1. By false suspicion, when, without sufficient reason, we deliberately surmise evil of our neighbor; and 2. By rash judgment, when, without sufficient reason, we believe the evil to be true and certain.
'Judge not, that you may not be judged. . . . Why seest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, and seest not the beam that is in thine own eye?' (Matt. vii. 1, 3).
16. What are we 'commanded' by the Eighth Commandment?
We are commanded, 1. To speak the truth in all things; 2. To be solicitous for the honor and reputation oi. every one; and 3. To bridle especially our tongue.
17. How far should we also be solicitous for our own honor?
As far as the honor of God, the edification of our neighbor, and the duties of our state of life require it.
'We forecast what may be good not only before God, but also before men' (2 Cor. viii. 21). Yet we should always be ready to suffer also reproach and ignominy for our own and our neighbor 's salvation, or for the sake of Jesus Christ. In this sense it is said, 'If one strike thee on thy right cheek, turn to him also the other' (Matt. v. 39); and, 'If you be reproached for the name of Christ, you shall be blessed' (1 Pet. iv. 14). 'And they [the Apostles] indeed went from the presence of the Council rejoicing that they were accounted worthy to suffer reproach for the name of Jesus' (Acts v. 41).
18. How are we to be solicitous for our own reputation?
Above all by continually leading a Christian life,1 and by avoiding, to the best of our power, even the least appearance of evil.2 In defence of our reputation when attacked we can use none but lawful means.
1 ' But with modesty and fear, having a good conscience: that whereas they speak evil of you, they may be ashamed who falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ' (1 Pet. iii. 16). 2 ' From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves ' ( 1 Thess. v. 22).
19. How may we best guard against the sins of the tongue?
