1. Try to describe, in your own words, the main point of this sermon.
2. Is the Third Good Word about “saying bad words”? Why or why not?
3. If the commandment is better understood as prohibiting a vain bearing of God’s name, describe some ways in which that includes the speaking of God’s name, as well as some ways in which it goes well beyond speaking.
4. Is it hard or easy to bear God’s name? Is it harder or easier than bearing your family name? Think of the examples about Michael Jordan’s struggles to impress his father. Think of Matthew 11:28-30. Discuss!
5. How does Jesus fulfill the Third Good Word? Why is that good news for you and me?
6. Can you think of a believer in your life who has borne the name of God with particular skill, joy, reverence, passion, and/or holiness? What was/is it like to be around that person? How did they make the people around them feel? Have you ever been around someone and not known whether they were a Christian believer, but had the sense that they must be, because of their “bearing“?
7. What would change in your life if you treasured God’s name? Can you think of one concrete name-bearing change you desire to see in your own life? Describe.
8. What is God saying to you? What are you going to do about it? Who is going to help you?