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Taking God's Name in Vain
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe third commandment, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain," carries a profound significance beyond merely avoiding profanity. It involves how we bear or carry God's name in our daily lives, as the Hebrew term for "take" implies to lift, to carry, or to bear. This commandment is not just about casual speech but encompasses all our activities and how they reflect on His honor. The word "name," in Hebrew "shem," goes beyond simple identification when referring to God. It embodies His character, reputation, and the reality of who He is as the holy God. Bearing His name means representing His essential Being and making a righteous witness to others through our example of godliness. The term "vain," from the Hebrew "shāw'," suggests deceit, falsehood, emptiness, and worthlessness. God forbids His people from speaking or acting in ways that deceive others about Him or devalue His holy, righteous character. Instead, He calls those who bear His name to express the truth about Him and His way in every thought, word, and behavior, bringing glory and honor to the Most High God.
What's in a Name Anyway?
Article by David F. MaasNames not only identify but they also arouse associations. Biblically, a person's name held his reputation, a thing to be guarded and enhanced.
The Plain Truth About the "Sacred Name"
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletDo we have to refer to the members of the God Family as Yahweh, Jehovah, or other Hebrew names in order to be saved? Is this God's intent, or superstition?
Where God Places His Name (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe re-establishment of Jerusalem as the world capitol demonstrates that even when God is angry, He still restores His people.
What's In a Name?
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityFar from being accidental, our given names are sacred threads in God's intricate design, worthy of joy, reflection, and reverence.
The Third Commandment
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe third commandment may be the most misunderstood of all. This commandment covers the quality of our worship — how we bear God's name before others.
The Third Commandment
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughMany think the Third Commandment merely prohibits profane speech. In reality, it regulates the purity and quality of our worship of the great God.
The Third Commandment (1997)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughMany think the third commandment deals only with euphemisms and swearing, but it goes much deeper. It regulates the quality of our worship and glorifying God.
Our Reputation, Our Character
Article by StaffWhat is the difference between reputation and character? Which is more important? Ultimately, our character should be the foundation of our reputation.
The Commandments (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe prohibition against taking God's name in vain is the least understood commandment. When we bear God's name, we are to bear His character and nature.
Holiness (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTo appropriate the name of God means to represent His attributes, character and nature. Our behavior must imitate Christ just as Christ revealed God the Father.
Psalms: Book Three (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPsalm 75 reveals that God both promotes and removes individuals from positions of power and He has the final say as to how power will be administrated.
Coattails
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeNimrod, Babylon's founder, was a narcissistic, arrogant, ungodly rebel who strove for preeminence. Most of his world clung to his coattails for security.
Babel: Confusing Wisdom and Rebellion
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeAfter the Flood, the people grew suspicious of God. Their natural inclination was to defend against another act of God rather than make peace with Him.
Prepare for Your Future Now
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidWe have been base and ignoble, but Christ has enabled us to be cleaned up and transformed or shaped into offspring of God to be joint heirs with Christ.
Hebrews (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIn terms of spiritual insight, Hebrews is a pivotal book, whose function is to bridge the purposes and themes of the Old and New Testaments.