The Large Catechism – part 77
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: John 6:63
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Click for audio of today's lesson.
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.
So, you now understand what it is to take God’s name in vain. To reiterate, it is either simply to lie and to use God’s name for something that is not so, or to curse, swear, trick, and in short, to practice any kind of wickedness.
Pulling It Together: Why is it that God is so concerned with words, that we speak the truth and use his name, his reputation, with care? Words, true words, create life. They create faith in Christ Jesus, which leads to eternal life. Lies lead to death. Misuse of God’s name, using it for personal gain and evil, leads to the ultimate loss. Hearing the truth, however, leads to faith, revivifying spirit and bringing life (Romans 10:17).
Prayer: Help me listen, Father, more than I speak. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
Share this post
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.
Click Here For Content Archives