“Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.”
This verse is part of the Ten Commandments, which were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. It specifically addresses the third commandment, which deals with the reverence and respect we should have for God’s name.
Understanding the commandment:The commandment begins with the phrase, “Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain.” “Taking the name of the LORD in vain” means using God’s name irreverently, without proper respect, or for empty or insincere purposes. This commandment calls for the appropriate use of God’s name and prohibits using it in a way that dishonours or disrespects Him.
The significance of God’s name:In biblical times, a person’s name was not merely a label, but it represented their character, nature, and authority. Similarly, God’s name represents His divine attributes, holiness, and power. His name is to be revered and honoured because of who He is.
The consequences of misusing God’s name:The verse states, “for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” This indicates that God takes the misuse of His name seriously and holds people accountable for their actions. Misusing God’s name can lead to guilt and judgment.
Application in our lives:
- Reverence and respect: We should treat God’s name with reverence and respect, acknowledging His holiness and greatness. This means refraining from using His name in a casual, irreverent, or blasphemous manner.
- Sincere worship: We should worship and pray to God sincerely, avoiding empty or insincere words. Our worship should be heartfelt, reflecting a genuine relationship with Him.
- Honoring our commitments: As followers of God, we bear His name. Therefore, we should strive to live in a way that honours His name and reflects His character. Our actions and words should align with the values and teachings of God.
Jesus’ teachings on the commandment:In the New Testament, Jesus expanded on the commandments, including the third commandment. In Matthew 5:33-37, Jesus emphasised the importance of keeping our oaths and speaking truthfully, highlighting the seriousness of our words and the integrity of our character.
In conclusion, Exodus 20:7 reminds us of the significance of God’s name and the importance of using it with reverence and respect. By obeying this commandment, we honour God and demonstrate our love for Him. Let us strive to live in a way that upholds the holiness of God’s name and reflects His character in all aspects of our lives.

