Heidelberg Catechism Week 36

99. Q. What is God's will for us in the third commandment? A. That we neither blaspheme nor misuse the name of God by cursing, perjury, or unnecessary oaths, nor share in such horrible sins by being silent bystanders. In a word, it requires that we use the holy name of God only with reverence and awe, so that we may properly confess Him, pray to Him, and praise Him in everything we do and say.

100. Q. Is blasphemy of God's name by swearing and cursing really such serious sin that God is angry also with those who do note do all they can to help prevent and forbid it? A. Yes, indeed. No sin is greater, no sin makes God more angry than blaspheming His name. That is why He commanded the death penalty for it.

My reflections on the reading from the book...

In the narrow sense of the meaning, "taking God's name in vain" is something that I personally find very offensive. And rightly so, for any child would hate to hear the name of his honored father misused. It is painful to my spirit when I have to listen to someone blaspheming the Name above all names!

A second, slightly differently, understanding of "taking God's name in vain" addresses the misuse of God's name "for purposes of our own ambition, avarice, or amusement," to quote John Calvin. I am always grieved to see those holier-than-thou "fightin' fundamentalists" toting around flaming placards, claiming to be the mouthpiece of God.

If I wear the name of "Christian" -- a follower of Christ -- then my entire life should magnify and exalt the name of Christ, never besmirching His name by my words or actions.