Does Exodus 20:7 indicate that misuse of God's name is in an unforgiveable sin?
'A person who misuses God's name will not be held guiltless by the Lord' (Exodus 20:7). Does this verse indicate that those who take Gods name in vain have committed an unpardonable sin: If this is the case, mankind God is in dire straits. I would imagine most men have taken Gods name in vain in one form or another. How is a man to get into heaven if he/she stands before God thinking that his sins (all inclusive) are not forgiven.
Exodus 20:7
ESV - 7 You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.
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Asked March 21 2018
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Dennis Patterson
Supporter
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Gerritt Schuitema
Supporter
The Hebrew word used in Ex 20:7 for ‘take’, as in ‘You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain’ does not mean to utter a phrase. The word is nasa' and it means to carry, to bear. The phrase is probably better translated ‘You shall not carry/bear the name of the Lord your God in vain’. That is a very, very different picture. It points to the reality that the best case for atheism is made by the one who claims God’s name to themself while committing evil. To truly be a false prophet in New Testament terms would be one example (Matt 7:15, 2 Pet 2). That is, not someone who may be in error or may be teaching an error and is ultimately rebukable and correctable, but one who is truly hell bound and is purposely deceiving Gods children. One who claims Gods name to them self, and yet acts in evil. This understanding gives a little added light into the grave warning found in Ex 20:7. Christ has come, and offered himself for our sins, and conquered the enemy stronger than us, and has risen from the grave. He wipes us clean and makes us fit to live by his side through sanctification and ultimate glorification. This one, the one who continues in repentance and faith in these promises, must never worry about such a warning as found in Ex 20:7. While we are not perfect, and while we should mind such a dire warning, we are covered. This warning is for another sort, like the false prophets, the wolves in sheeps clothing. It is for those who actively claim His name while purposely leading others to their death either through teaching or their example. As I said before, as I heard it, no one makes a better case for atheism than this one. May we all shine more brightly, for His Name’s sake, through the One who gives us grace and strength to do so!
JD Abshire
Supporter
I believe that particular Passage covers a multitude of situations. According to Strong's Concordance the Hebrew word for vain is (shäv) with the following definitions: emptiness, vanity, falsehood emptiness, nothingness, vanity emptiness of speech, lying worthlessness (of conduct) I personally believe so called "Christian" preachers, evangelists, etc. Who preach a false gospel whereby they damn millions to hell will suffer the most.
Singapore Moses
Supporter
✿ 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 (Ex. 20:7) ✿ This commandment is against false swearing, blasphemy, and all profane, trivial, and irreverent uses of God's name. It also refers to using God's name in false religions, witchcraft, conjuring--any abuse of His holy name whatsoever. ✿ No penalty is stated for those who taketh His name in vain in this verse Ex. 20:7, but death is specified in Lev. 24:10-16,23; Num. 15:30-31. ✿ The right use of His name is confined to sacred things--prayer, praise, prophecy, teaching, worship, and communion with God and saints (Mal. 3:16). When men begin to fear the Lord, God hearkens; He hears their conversation of reverence; and a ❝book of remembrance❞ is written for them.
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