The 39 Articles of Religion: Articles 38 & 39, Of Goods and Oaths

"You cannot serve both God and money." Article 38 encourages us to use our money for godly purposes. Article 39 encourages us to keep our word, and that we can and should take oaths provided we are being truthful and serving the cause of justice.

XXXVIII. Of Christian Men's Goods, which are not common.

The Riches and Goods of Christians are not common, as touching the right, title, and possession of the same; as certain Anabaptists do falsely boast. Notwithstanding, everyman ought, of such things as he possesseth, liberally to give alms to the poor, according to his ability.

XXXIX. Of a Christian Man's Oath.

As we confess that vain and rash Swearing is forbidden Christian men by our Lord Jesus Christ, and James his Apostle, so we judge, that Christian Religion doth not prohibit, but that a man may swear when the Magistrate requireth, in a cause of faith and charity, so it be done according to the Prophet's teaching in justice, judgment, and truth.