The Large Catechism – part 68
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: John 4:7–10
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Large Catechism, The Ten Commandments
The Second Commandment
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
Everyone can easily conclude from this when and in how many ways God’s name is misused, though it is impossible to enumerate all its abuses. To tell it in a few words, misuse of the divine name is prevalent, first, in worldly business and in matters that concern money, possessions, and honor, whether publicly in court, the market, or wherever else people make false oaths in God’s name, or pledge their souls in any matter. This is especially widespread in marital affairs, where two people go and secretly consent to marry, and afterward disavow their oaths.
Pulling It Together: See how near the Samaritan woman was to missing the grace of God. Old wounds and deep pride kept her from speaking the truth. This happens so often when people feel cornered, when the truth is near enough to unravel the past. It is best to keep one’s promises and then, not need to worry about hiding the past. Of course, that being rarely accomplished, one’s only recourse is to ask for living water: for mercy and forgiveness and peace.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your great gifts that are mine in Christ despite my past. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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