Taking God's Name

The third of the Ten Commandments states, “Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” (Exodus 20:7) Most Christians should recognize that using the Lord’s name as a profane expletive has no significant benefit; therefore, such use easily falls under the category of vanity. But there is another sense, a more important one, which begs understanding.

When a woman marries in a Biblical culture, her last name changes. We say that she has given up her father’s name and has “taken her husband’s name.” But if she continues to live like a single person or if she begins getting involved in adulterous relationships, she has taken her husband’s name in vain. She is not being faithful to her identity as her husband’s wife.

We who have been baptized “in the Name” of the triune God have “taken Christ’s name.” We are the Bride of Christ, and we are called Christians. But if we are not keeping ourselves “only unto Him,” then we have taken His name in vain.

Another approach to this important principle could be stated as follows: If you were born into the Smith family, then you are a Smith, like it or not; it’s too late to change your mind. You will not change the fact even if you isolate yourself entirely from any association with other Smiths. You can only bring shame or glory to the name … because you are stuck with it.

Similarly, if you were once born into Christ’s family, then you are a Christian, like it or not; it’s too late to change your mind. You will not change the fact even if you isolate yourself entirely from any association with other Christians. You can only bring shame or glory to the Name … because you are stuck with It. But always remember: if you are failing to live as a faithful member of the Body and Bride of Christ, then “the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” This is just another reason to pray, “Our Father which art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name.” (Matthew 6:9, Luke 11:2)