Heidelberg Catechism (1563)

Section 36: Lord’s Day 36

Zacharias Ursinus and Caspar Olevianus

Section 36: Lord’s Day 36

Question 99

What is required in the third command?

That we, not only by cursing or perjury,a but also by rash swearing, must not profane or abuse the name of God, nor by silence or connivance be partakers of these horrible sins in others:b and, briefly, that we use the holy name of God no otherwise than with fear and reverence;c so that he may be rightly confessedd and worshipped by us, and be glorified in all our words and works.e

  1. a. Leviticus 24:11; 19:12; Matthew 5:37; Leviticus 5:4

    Leviticus 24:11

    Leviticus 19:12

    Matthew 5:37

    Leviticus 5:4

    King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

  2. b. Isaiah 45:23–24

    Isaiah 45:23–24

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  3. c. Matthew 10:32

    Matthew 10:32

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  4. d. 1 Timothy 2:8

    1 Timothy 2:8

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  5. e. 1 Corinthians 3:16–17

    1 Corinthians 3:16–17

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Question 100

Is then the profaning of God’s name, by swearing and cursing, so heinous a sin, that his wrath is kindled against those who do not endeavour, as much as in them lies, to prevent and forbid such cursing and swearing?

It undoubtedly is:a for there is no sin greater, or more provoking to God, than the profaning of his name; and therefore he has commanded this sin to be punished with death.b

  1. a. Leviticus 5:1

    Leviticus 5:1

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  2. b. Leviticus 24:15

    Leviticus 24:15

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