The Ten Commandments for Business: Commandment Three

Years ago, I met a bank customer who was wearing a branded shirt that had embroidered, “A Christian Owned Business” under his company name. My joy turned to regret when I learned he wanted to deceive and cheat one of his employees out of millions of dollars.

His actions that day dishonored the very name of Jesus.

God’s third commandment in Exodus 20:7 says, “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.”

Many believe this verse is simply talking about swearing, but misusing God’s name is much broader than that. Some businesses try to leverage their faith for marketing purposes.

This can be a slippery slope depending upon your motives. If you’re lying, deceiving, or cheating others, as a follower of Jesus, you are denigrating God’s name, and that misuse will come with eternal consequences. God is Holy and expects His name to be revered not misused.

Questions for Reflection

• Has your name ever been attached to a group project you really wish it had not been? Have your teammates poor performances ever gotten you in trouble?
• When have you misused the Lord’s name? When have you misused Christianity? When have others misused Christianity? What “Christian” advertising hurts Christians more than it helps them? What aspect of the presentation is primarily at fault?