Is using “God” as a curse word not taking the Lord’s name in vain?
Question:
Hello
Firstly, thank you very much for the very informative site and the work that you do.
I recently had someone totally shock me by stating that "God" was a generic term and questioning whether it constituted using the Lord's name in vain. His argument was that "God" was not God's name and could therefore not be used in vain. Another argument was the frame of reference of the person using it.
I don't share this view at all, but how do I prove that these names are binding?
I would also like to know your response or tips on how to respond to situations where the Lord's name is used in vain, especially in the corporate world.
Thank you for your effort and I am looking forward to your response.
Answer:
The problem is more that the person thinks using God's name in vain is only saying the word God or Yahweh as a curse word. The view is too narrow. See: Not Taking the Lord's Name in Vain. God's name is His reputation and His authority. Yes, using His name as a curse word is degrading His reputation, but it is just one small way God's name can be used in vain.
The biggest impact I've found is that I simply don't swear at all. It is amazing how many people notice. They are so used to other people swearing that someone who doesn't stick out. "And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, "Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you." Then he began to curse and swear, saying, "I do not know the Man!" Immediately a rooster crowed"" (Matthew 26:73-74). I've tried to politely tell people that I prefer not to hear cursing because it bothers me, but it only works on a few people. Some people don't care and others make a point of swearing even more.
