How does Leviticus 19:12 emphasize the importance of honoring God's name today? The Heart of Leviticus 19:12 “You shall not swear falsely by My name and so profane the name of your God. I am the LORD.” Why the Name Matters • God’s name reveals His character—truth, holiness, faithfulness (Psalm 111:9). • To misuse that name is to misrepresent Him. • “I am the LORD” anchors the command in His unchanging authority (Malachi 3:6). Linking Old and New • Third Commandment: “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain” (Exodus 20:7). • Jesus deepens the standard: “Do not swear at all… let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:34, 37). • James echoes: “Above all… do not swear… so that you will not fall under judgment” (James 5:12). Forms of Profaning the Name Today • Casual or careless use of “God,” “Lord,” or “Jesus.” • Making promises “in God’s name” with no intent to keep them. • Attaching God’s name to personal agendas or false teaching (Jeremiah 23:25-27). • Living hypocritically while identifying as His people (Romans 2:23-24). Positive Ways to Honor His Name • Speak truthfully—keep vows, contracts, and everyday promises. • Reserve God’s name for reverent worship and sincere prayer. • Represent Him accurately in doctrine and conversation (Titus 2:1). • Live distinctly so others “see your good deeds and glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). • Whatever you do, “do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17). Consequences and Blessings • Profaning the name invites judgment (Leviticus 24:15-16). • Honoring it brings intimacy with God—“The LORD knows those who are His” (2 Timothy 2:19). • A life that exalts His name becomes a powerful testimony (Philippians 2:15-16). A Call to Authentic Witness Leviticus 19:12 still speaks: treat God’s name as sacred, align words with deeds, and let every promise, post, and conversation reflect the holiness of the One whose name we bear. |
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