A Weekly Reading from the


Lord’s Day 36: The Third Commandment (1)

Lord’s Day 36

The Third Commandment (1)

Christian Gratitude

Question 99

What is required in the third commandment?

Answer

That we, not only by cursing 1 or perjury, 2 but also by rash swearing, 3 must not profane or abuse the name of God; nor by silence or connivance be partakers of these horrible sins in others; 4 and, briefly, that we use the holy name of God no otherwise than with fear and reverence; 5 so that he may be rightly confessed 6 and worshipped by us, 7 and be glorified in all our words and works. 8

Question 100

Is then the profaning of God’s name, by swearing and cursing, so heinous a sin, that his wrath is kindled against those who do not endeavour, as much as in them lies, to prevent and forbid such cursing and swearing?

Answer

It undoubtedly is, 9 for there is no sin greater or more provoking to God, than the profaning of his name; and therefore he has commanded this sin to be punished with death. 10

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