A. About the Idea of an Oath

11. As to the first point I say that an oath is the assertion that a human statement is true, and this ultimately according to Hebrews 6.16, “the end of every controversy is the swearing of an oath.” For man, knowing that man is mendacious and ignorant and can consequently deceive and be deceived, cannot give sure faith to his statements. And so a way was found of asserting statements by bringing in another witness, a true and knowing witness, who can neither deceive nor be deceived; and this is done by swearing an oath. For God is there brought in, who knows the truth and cannot lie, as being a witness of my assertion.