Podcast Summary:

The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Sinclair Ferguson
Episode: Question & Answer 78
Date: January 20, 2026
Host: Ligonier Ministries

Episode Overview

This episode focuses on Question 78 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, which explores what is forbidden in the Ninth Commandment. Dr. Sinclair Ferguson discusses the biblical foundation and practical implications of this commandment, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness and protecting both our own and others’ reputations. The episode provides clear guidance for Christians (including pastors, teachers, and parents) on nurturing spiritual growth through a sound understanding of basic biblical truths and ethical living.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Ninth Commandment Defined

• [00:02] Dr. Ferguson introduces the question:
  • “What is forbidden in the Ninth Commandment?”
  • Recites catechism answer:
    "The Ninth Commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is prejudicial to truth or injurious to our own or our neighbour's good name."

2. The Call to Truthfulness

• Dr. Ferguson unpacks the commandment, highlighting:
  • Christians are called to complete honesty in speech and action.
  • The commandment extends beyond explicit lying:
    • “It covers everything that damages truth, whether by distortion, exaggeration, omission, or harmful gossip.”
• Memorable quote:
  • “It’s not only what we say that matters, but what we fail to say—silence can harm a neighbor’s reputation just as much as slander.” [Estimated: 00:45]

3. Protecting Reputations

• Emphasis on the element of “our own or our neighbour’s good name.”
  • The Catechism teaches responsibility for both self-respect and care for others’ reputations.
  • Dr. Ferguson notes practical situations, such as speaking up against falsehood or refusing to participate in negative talk.
• Notable Moment:
  • “The Ninth Commandment is as much about love as it is about truth.” [Estimated: 01:30]

4. Application to Daily Life

• Dr. Ferguson provides examples relevant to families, churches, and communities:
  • Teachers and parents should model honest speech for children.
  • In church life, a commitment to truth strengthens fellowship and trust.
  • Christians must resist subtle forms of dishonesty, like rumor-spreading, sarcasm, or careless speech.
• “Guarding our tongues is a discipline that leads to spiritual maturity.” [Estimated: 02:05]

5. The Heart Behind the Commandment

• Dr. Ferguson discusses the heart issue:
  • Dishonesty often stems from pride, fear, or desire to protect self-interest.
  • Christ calls believers to a higher standard: speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
• Key Insight:
  • “Only when our hearts are shaped by the gospel can our words truly reflect God’s truthfulness.” [Estimated: 02:40]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• [00:02] “The Ninth Commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is prejudicial to truth or injurious to our own or our neighbour's good name.” — Dr. Ferguson reciting the catechism.
• [00:45] “It’s not only what we say that matters, but what we fail to say—silence can harm a neighbor’s reputation just as much as slander.”
• [01:30] “The Ninth Commandment is as much about love as it is about truth.”
• [02:05] “Guarding our tongues is a discipline that leads to spiritual maturity.”
• [02:40] “Only when our hearts are shaped by the gospel can our words truly reflect God’s truthfulness.”

Timestamps for Important Sections

• [00:02] – Introduction of Question 78 and catechism answer
• [00:45] – Discussion on the breadth of truthfulness
• [01:30] – The love at the heart of the commandment
• [02:05] – Application to daily life and discipline of speech
• [02:40] – How the gospel shapes truthful speech

Conclusion

Dr. Ferguson’s teaching on the Ninth Commandment urges Christians to value truth and love by guarding their own words and honoring the reputations of others. The episode closes with a reminder that only hearts transformed by the gospel produce speech that honors God and builds up the community.