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by Kevin Pauley
Do not misuse the name of the Lord your God, because the Lord will punish anyone who misuses His name. – Exodus 20:7 HCSB
I have discussed often in my writings the concept of Kiddush Hashem, or sanctifying God’s Name. I want you to now consider the ramifications of that concept regarding the third of the Ten Commandments.
Many English translations render it “do not take the name” or in the case of the HCSB “do not misuse the name” causing many to apply only the most superficial interpretation consisting of a prohibition on using God’s name as a cuss word.
But this verse begins “Lo tissa…” which in Hebrew literally means “carry.” Each of the tzaddikim carry the Name with them, much as a proud fan carries the name of his or her hero or favorite team on his ball cap.
When we identify ourselves with Yahweh but abuse His name by living according to the sinful lifestyles, we are trespassing against His name. We are guilty of Chillul Hashem (desecrating His name).
Consider the second half of this verse. It says rather pointedly that those who are guilty of Chillul Hashem are in for some punishment. Lest you think that this is only meant for the Old Testament saints, think for a second – can you come up with a single New Testament passage that directly contradicts this verse? Is this verse meant only for the people of Israel? Is it directly related to the Temple worship, or the offering of sacrifices for our atonement? Is it meant strictly to maintain the distinctiveness of the people of Israel from the Gentiles? The correct answer for all of these is no. Therefore, it still applies.
Do not think that God’s children are not subject to this principle for “those whom God loves, He disciplines”[1] and “judgment begins with the house of God.”[2]
It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.[3] I tremble to think of the fate of this generation of people who call themselves Christians but advocate a loose, permissive and relativistic lifestyle. It has gotten so bad that many of us are embarrassed to title ourselves Christians. Not due to any shame of our Lord and Savior Jesus, but because of the lifestyles of those among us who proclaim themselves sheep, but live wolfish lives.
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord!' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father in heaven. On that day many will say to Me, 'Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in Your name, drive out demons in Your name, and do many miracles in Your name?' Then I will announce to them, 'I never knew you! Depart from Me, you lawbreakers!'”[4]
Our good works do not justify us[5][1] Proverbs 3:11-12; Job 5:17-18; Romans 11:22; 1 Corinthians 11:32; Hebrews 12:5-9; Revelation 3:19
but they certainly do identify us.[6]Kevin Pauley is a pastor and writer. He lives in Illinois with his wife, Lynn, their five children and two dogs. His internet address is Berea.
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