The Name Above All Names

“You shall not take (lift, bear) the name of the LORD your God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that takes His name in vain” (Exodus 20:7).

This sin is called blasphemy and came with a death penalty. It was a serious crime to claim to be God’s people but slander His name and character. Yet this was the verse used against Jesus to put Him to death.

Ignoring His miracles and His grace, Jesus was taken to the high priest and put under oath, “I adjure you, by the living God, that you tell us whether you are the Messiah, the Son of God!” Jesus said, “You have said (correctly): nevertheless, I say to you, Hereafter you shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of Power and coming in the clouds of Heaven.” Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! What further need do we have of witnesses? Behold, you have all heard his blasphemy! What do you think?” They answered and said, “He is guilty of death!” (Matthew 26:63-66).

Today, this command is broken without care. Jesus’ name is lifted irreverently on lips and carried irreverently by those who profess to belong to God while their lifestyles say differently. It’s a serious offense.

But to true children of God, forgiven and made right within by His Spirit, His Name is precious; and their heart’s desire is to glorify Christ in words and actions. And in these last days, where the antichrist attitude of blasphemy is growing, God encourages you, “If you are slandered for the name of Christ, be happy; for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified” (1 Peter 4:14).

Bear His Name with honor.