The Small Catechism of Dr. Martin Luther

The Ten Commandments

The Eighth Commandment

You shall not give false testimony against your neighbour.

What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbour, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest possible way.

Almighty God, You have commanded us not to give false testimony against our neighbor. Grant that we may fear and love You so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way; through Jesus Christ our Lord.