To take up God’s name in vain means any frivolous, or insincere, or thoughtless, or unsubstantial use of His name. It might mean irreverent humor which mocks God in speech, or mocks others with His name. It might be blasphemy or cursing or a broken oath, but it means more than that. It could mean professing faith in Christ, and claiming to be a Christian, and receiving baptism, and yet walking in worldliness.
— Ligon Duncan (b. 1960), Theologe, Pastor, Kanzler des Reformed Theological Seminary
Topics: Discipleship, Ethical Questions
Occasions: For Reflection
Ligon Duncan
J. Ligon Duncan (* 1960) ist ein US-amerikanischer presbyterianischer Theologe, Pastor und Kanzler des Reformed Theological Seminary. Als Mitgründer von Netzwerken wie „Together for the Gospel“ steht er für die klassische reformierte Bundestheologie und das Bekenntnisverständnis der Westminster Confession. Für heutige Bibelleser bietet er eine traditionsbewusste, historisch fundierte Schriftauslegung sowie theologische Orientierung zu Gottesdienst und Gemeindepraxis.
All quotes by Ligon Duncan (19)
Jesus calls us not to a new religion, but to life.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Prayer does not equip us for greater works – prayer is the greater work.
Oswald Chambers
In a sense, learning to follow Jesus is simply learning to pray the Lord’s Prayer.
N.T. Wright
Being a Christian is not a 'do-it-yourself' affair.
Jerry Bridges
God has not called us to success, only to faithfulness.
Mother Teresa
He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.
Jim Elliot
Do not be afraid of Christ. He demands nothing and he gives everything.
Pope Benedict XVI
A Christian is not a man who never goes wrong, but a man who is enabled to repent.
C.S. Lewis