What other Scriptures emphasize the importance of revering God's name? The Charge in Leviticus 24:11 “An Israelite woman’s son blasphemed the Name with a curse; so they brought him to Moses. (His mother’s name was Shelomith daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan.)” (Leviticus 24:11) This incident shows how seriously the community had to treat any dishonor done to the LORD’s Name. Scripture never relaxes that standard. Foundational Commands: The Law Sets the Tone • 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.” • Leviticus 19:12 — “You must not swear falsely by My name and so profane the name of your God. I am the LORD.” • Deuteronomy 28:58 — “If you do not carefully observe all the words of this law which are written in this book, and fear this glorious and awesome name, the LORD your God…” These early commands frame honoring God’s Name as both moral duty and covenant requirement. Worship and Wisdom Literature: Reverence Sung and Spoken • Psalm 29:2 — “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.” • Psalm 111:9 — “He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; holy and awesome is His name.” • Proverbs 18:10 — “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Here the poets celebrate God’s Name as glorious, secure, and set apart—truths that invite heartfelt worship. Prophetic Voices: Calling God’s People Back • Isaiah 29:23 — “They will sanctify My name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and stand in awe of the God of Israel.” • Malachi 1:6 — “A son honors his father… But if I am a father, where is My honor? … says the LORD of Hosts to you priests who despise My name.” • Malachi 1:11 — “For My name will be great among the nations… says the LORD of Hosts.” The prophets diagnose spiritual drift by how lightly God’s Name is treated—and call for renewed awe. Jesus and the Early Church: Reverence in Word and Deed • Matthew 6:9 — “So then, this is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.’” • Colossians 3:17 — “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” • Philippians 2:9-11 — “God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” From prayer to daily conduct, reverence for the Name remains central—now focused on Jesus, the fullest revelation of God. Eternal Perspective: The Name Revered Forever • Revelation 15:4 — “Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy…” Even in eternity, creation’s song centers on giving honor to God’s Name, showing that this theme spans Genesis to Revelation. Key Themes That Keep Emerging • God’s Name is holy—set apart from everything common. • Taking the Name lightly invites judgment; honoring it brings blessing and safety. • Reverence involves both speech and lifestyle—truthful words, obedient living, thankful worship. • Jesus embodies and magnifies the divine Name; honoring Him fulfills the Law’s intent. Living It Out Today • Guard your speech—speak of the Lord with honesty, gratitude, and awe. • Let worship be more than music; ascribe to Him “the glory due His name” in private and public life. • Remember that representing Him in daily tasks (“whatever you do… do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus”) is a high calling. • Anticipate eternity, where every knee will bow—start bowing the heart now. |
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