The Ten Commandments
Q4. What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not curse or swear using his name, or use it to lie or trick others. Instead, we should call on God when we are in trouble, and pray to him, praise him, and thank him.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Leviticus 19:12
“And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.”
James 5:12
“But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”
Psalm 50:15
“And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.”
Psalm 107:1
“O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What are some wrong ways people use God's name that Luther lists?
- 2
What are the right ways Luther says we should use God's name?
- 3
When was the last time you called on God's name in trouble or thanked him for something specific?
Illustration
A soldier carries his country's flag into battle. If he drags it through the mud or uses it as a rag, he dishonors everything that flag stands for. But when he raises it high, people remember what it means. God gave you his name so you could call on him in prayer, thank him, and praise him. Every time you use it that way, you raise his flag high.
Application
Before bed each night this week, name one thing God did for you that day and thank him out loud. Because God gave you his name, you can call on him anytime.
Read Luther’s expanded teaching
From the Large Catechism (1529)