The Third Commandment teaches me that God’s name is holy and must be treated with the utmost reverence. His name represents His character, His authority, and His covenant relationship with His people. To misuse His name is to take lightly what is weighty. Bishop Stephen Wood (ACNA, Diocese of the Carolinas) writes, “God’s name is not a tool or a toy. It is not ours to use for emphasis, manipulation, or vanity. It is to be hallowed.” (Catechetical Sermon Series, 2021)

This commandment forbids obvious sins such as blasphemy, cursing, and false swearing, but it also includes subtle forms of irreverence—using God’s name thoughtlessly or invoking Him in speech without truth or intention. Fr. Michael Jarrett (AMiA, All Saints Dallas) teaches, “The real test of reverence is not silence but sincerity. To say, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what He says is to take His name in vain.” (Worship and Integrity, 2018)

The Third Commandment also applies to the way we worship and witness. Canon George Grant (ACNA, Parish Presbyterian Church, TN) explains, “If we claim the name of Christ but live contrary to His ways, we dishonor that name before the watching world.” (Recovering Anglican Piety, 2019) Hypocrisy and false representation of the gospel violate this command just as much as profane speech.

Gerald Bray (ACNA-affiliated, Beeson Divinity School) emphasizes the command’s positive side: “We are not only forbidden to misuse God’s name—we are commanded to use it rightly. In prayer, praise, teaching, and thanksgiving, we glorify His name when our hearts are aligned with our words.” (God Has Spoken, 2014)

Fr. Keith Allen (AMiA, St. Brendan’s Anglican Church, AL) sums it up simply: “The Third Commandment calls us to speak like children of God—truthfully, humbly, and reverently. Every word matters, because every word reveals the heart.” (Teaching on the Commandments, 2019)