The Ten Words (Part 3): Carrying the Name

TO START: In The Ten Words series, we explore the personal and practical foundations God gives in the Exodus story, often known as the Ten Commandments.

In the third message, we explore how taking the Lord’s name in vain involves far more than swearing or using God’s name carelessly. This guidance from the Lord is expansive, touching on how we speak about God, act in His name, and represent Him to the world. The good news is that God has entrusted us with His name and commissioned us to carry it with weight, integrity, and fullness for the sake of the world.

TO READ: Exodus 20:7

TO DISCUSS:

(1.) What’s a nickname you’ve been called that always made you cringe or laugh?

(2.) Before this message, what explanation or perception did you have of the guidance given in Exodus 20:7?

(3.) The good news of Exodus 20:7 is that God not only entrusts us with His name but invites us to call upon it in every area of life. In what area do you call on Him most and in what area the least?

(4.) Can you share a moment from your past when you unintentionally misrepresented God’s name or character to others?

(5.) Among your relationships and daily spaces, where do you sense the need for greater courage to speak or pray in Jesus’ name for the sake of others?

TO CLOSE/TO PRAY (Guided listening prayer): 

Leader: “Holy Spirit, we welcome you and we acknowledge that You, God have entrusted us with Your name..” (Pause 30 seconds)

Leader: “Lord, as we reflect on our lives, would you reveal what’s in our hearts as we think about carrying your name?”

Leader: Consider naming each of these prompts for your group to reflect, pausing for a minute each time: 

  • “Lord, as I reflect on my life, where am I carrying Your name with integrity and faithfulness?”

  • “Where might I be carrying Your name lightly–Or cautiously–Or inconsistently?

  • “Is there a relationship, space, or situation where You are inviting me to represent Your name more fully through my words, prayers, or my actions?

Leader: “Jesus, what is one gentle invitation You are placing on my heart today?”

Leader: Leave some space for anyone to name their answer to the final quesiton in prayer out loud and then close with a prayer.

Matt DeLano