How does Ezekiel 20:9 connect with the Third Commandment about God's name? Scripture Focus • Ezekiel 20:9: “But I acted for the sake of My name so that it would not be profaned in the eyes of the nations among whom they lived, in whose sight I had made Myself known to Israel by bringing them out of the land of Egypt.” • Exodus 20:7: “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain.” What Ezekiel 20:9 Shows About God’s Name • God’s reputation is central to His actions. • He rescued Israel not only out of compassion, but “for the sake of My name.” • His concern is that the nations would not view His name—His character, fame, and honor—as hollow or powerless. • Similar emphasis appears in Isaiah 48:11; Psalm 106:8; Ezekiel 36:20-23. Link to the Third Commandment • The Third Commandment protects the same divine reputation: God’s people must not misuse His name (Exodus 20:7). • Ezekiel 20:9 shows the consequence when Israel’s life contradicted God’s holiness—the nations were ready to “profane” His name. • God Himself intervened to safeguard what His covenant people were commanded to guard. • Therefore, the commandment is not merely about speech; it covers every action that reflects on God (Leviticus 19:12; Romans 2:24). Why God Guards His Name • His name embodies His nature—truth, holiness, power, mercy (Psalm 8:1; 25:11). • A tarnished name would imply a tarnished God, which is impossible; hence He acts. • By rescuing Israel, He demonstrated to the watching world that He is faithful and sovereign. Practical Takeaways for Us • Treat God’s name with weight in both words and lifestyle. – Honest speech, integrity, and purity honor Him. – Casual, flippant references to God diminish His glory. • Live so outsiders see God’s character accurately (Matthew 5:16; 2 Corinthians 5:20). • Remember: when we fail, God may still act to uphold His name, but our witness suffers. Summary Points • Third Commandment: protect God’s name. • Ezekiel 20:9: God protects His own name when His people fail. • Both passages call believers to represent Him faithfully so the world sees His holiness, not hypocrisy. Key Thought If God is passionately committed to the honor of His name, His people must be no less committed in every conversation, promise, post, and deed. |
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