The Lord's Prayer
Q32. What does this mean?
God's name is already holy all on its own. But we pray that it will be kept holy among us too. How? God's name is kept holy when his Word is taught clearly and truthfully, and when we, as God's children, live according to it. Help us to do this, dear Father in heaven! But anyone who teaches or lives against God's Word dishonors God's name. Keep us from this, heavenly Father!
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Ezekiel 36:23
“And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.”
John 17:17
“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
Psalm 119:105
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
How does Luther say God's name is kept holy?
- 2
What dishonors God's name according to this answer?
- 3
Can you think of a time when how you acted did not match what you say you believe?
Illustration
A student wears his school uniform but then goes around bullying other kids. He carries the school's name on his shirt, but his behavior drags that name through the dirt. Christians carry God's name. When we say we belong to him but live as though we do not, we dishonor his name in front of everyone watching.
Application
Pick one situation this week, at school, at practice, or with friends, where people know you are a Christian. Ask God to help your actions match his name. Because you carry his name, how you live matters.
Read Luther’s expanded teaching
From the Large Catechism (1529)