3. When we use the name of God in cursing, swearing, conjuring, lying,
or deceiving.
_41. What is it to curse by the name of God?_
It is to call down evil upon ourselves, our neighbor, or any other
created thing, by the name of God.
_42. What is it to swear by the name of God?_
It is to bear witness to anything by the holy name of God.
_43. Are we never permitted to swear?_
Yes; when the proper authorities demand it in God's stead.
_44. Why is it a great sin to commit perjury?_
Because the perjurer shows open disregard for God and the salvation of
his own soul, and frankly calls down the judgment of God upon himself.
_45. Are cursing and swearing sinful when the name of God is not
used?_
Yes, indeed; for whatever we curse or swear by, we really do so by God
who is the Lord of all things.
=Matt. 5:34-37. Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is
God's throne:=
=Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem;
for it is the city of the great King.=
=Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not
make one hair white or black.=
=But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for
whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.=
_46. Are cursing and swearing sinful when they have become a
habit?_
Most certainly; for a sinful habit proves that sin is our master.
_47. What is it to conjure by the name of God?_
It is trying to cure diseases, or to practice any other kind of
superstition, by the name of God or a passage from the Bible.
_48. How do we lie and deceive by the name of God?_
By perjury, false teaching, and hypocrisy.
=Matt. 15:9. In vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines
the commandments of men.=
=Titus 1:16. They profess that they know God; but by their works
they deny Him.=
_49. What must he expect who takes the name of God in vain?_
Great punishment, both in time and eternity; for the Lord will not
hold him guiltless that taketh His name in vain.
_50. How do we use the name of God properly?_
When we sincerely call upon the name of God in every time of need, and
worship Him with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.