These days we are increasingly held to account for the words we use when addressing others. Words matter and words can hurt. Using a derogatory name or word for someone can intimidate shame, insult, wound, marginalize or in some way diminish another person. You really can’t argue with that. There is so much in the news about “bullying”, both publicly and in all manner of social media, and really, the anonymity of social media gives people the necessary mask to vent their feelings without any accountability. It’s a shame really. But, at the same time many of us recognize that this kind of unkindness has been going on since the dawn of time. That of course does not make it right or acceptable; we just recognize how pervasive this is. So for everyone who is trying to watch what they say so that we don’t marginalize anyone around us, I have this request.
Stop using the name of Jesus as an epithet. Stop using the name of Jesus as an expression of surprise, agitation, regret or in any way other than addressing Him as a person. Stop using the name of God to damn anything or anybody. Stop using the name of God or Jesus as an adjective. You see, every time you use the name of my Lord and Savior and the name of my God in any way other than how His name is to be properly used, not only do you insult Him, you break one of His Commandments, but you also hurt me and my feelings. I have placed my faith and trust in Him for the salvation of my soul. I know many of you don’t agree, or maybe even think I’m a nut for doing so. Fine, I get that. But to me He is my Lord and My Savior and I am eternally indebted to Him for what He has done for me. When you insult Him, you wound me. Are you concerned about the words you use wounding other people? Then you should be concerned about the abuse of Jesus’ name.
We have all learned that to use the name of Mohammed, or the name “Allah” is this manner could very well bring violence upon you or your family. In many countries today I could be executed just for saying that! At the very least you would be considered “insensitive” or “Isalmophobic”. But why would it be considered “sensitive” to not use Mohammed’s name that way but it is okay to use the name of Jesus that way? Can you imagine what would happen if Christians took offense like Muslims do when our God is insulted? Thankfully, my God is capable of defending Himself and doesn’t need me to do it! So while we are rightfully zealous to make people aware that words matter, I wonder if we need to be equally zealous that taking the name of the Jesus and God as an adjective, epithet or expression of surprise is just as bad?
So, while I am perfectly fine with watching my words and trying my best to not marginalize anyone with my words, I am asking, no, demanding, that everyone do the same when it comes to the name of Jesus Christ and God the Father. Or, is it okay to insult me and my God?