Jacob feigned himself as Esau, before his father Isaac who became blind. Isaac wanted to make sure that he gave the blessings to his eldest son Esau. He asked if he was Esau. Jacob replied he was Esau. Isaac had another doubt, How could he come back quickly from hunting, cleaning, and cooking so fast? Jacob said: “Because the Lord God gave me success.” (Genesis 27: 20) He used the name of the Holy God to establish him as honest and sincere.
Profanity: Using the name of God to swear or as a cuss word. Scorners and scoffers use God’s name in vain.
Frivolity: Using the name of God in a stupid, foolish way.
Hypocrisy: Claiming the name of God but denying him in behavior. People who honor God just with lips, but their hearts are far away from God. (Mark 7:6-9)
Swearing: This command forbids empty or vain or ingenuine oaths. The third commandment also forbids empty or false oaths (Leviticus 19:12; Hosea 10:4) Swearing to gain credibility is taking God’s name in vain. Making God a partner for evil deeds and wicked exploitations is a sin. The righteous and Holy God will not justify any evil or wickedness or unrighteousness.
False prophecy: False prophets prophesied take God’s name in vain. (Jeremiah 23:25)
False ministry: Some people call God Lord, Lord. However, they are rejected. They claim that they have done miracles in His name. Such false teachers and prophets would be rejected by God. (Matthew 7:21-23)
Defiling holy things: The Lord commanded Aaron and his sons not to abuse the offerings and profane the name of the Lord. (Leviticus 22:2)
Lack of witness: Since people of God are known by His Holy Name, any word or deed, or behavior that violates His attributes brings dishonor to His name.
Dishonor: Some reject baptism of one denomination that has been given in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They also demand people take a second baptism. That is also a violation of the third commandment.
Do I honor, respect, and esteem God’s name?