GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: We all carry names — our own, our family’s, even our reputations. But what happens when God gives us his name to carry? Join us as we explore one of the most misunderstood of the Ten Commandments and discover why this word is more relevant than ever.
Main Points:
PART 1. God’s name & the text.
1. God has revealed his name so we can know him personally and live in relationship with him.
2. God’s name shows who he is — the one who truly exists, who is with us, and who saves.
3. God invites his people to carry his name, showing we belong to him and helping others know him.
PART 2. What does it mean to “take the name”?
1. Prayer. Call on God’s name in prayer and worship.
2. Speech. Use God’s name in blessing and proclamation, speaking of him to others.
3. Lifestyle. Live and walk in his name so your actions match his character.
4. Ministry. Work and serve in Jesus’ name, doing his work with his authority.
5. Witness. Bear his name before the world as your identity, standing with him even when it costs.
On-Ramps:
Receive his name — step into relationship with Yahweh.
Live his name — walk in line with Yahweh’s character.
Share his name — make Yahweh known to others.
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
How does understanding God’s name deepen your understanding of his character and his desire for relationship with you?
What does, “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God,” mean in the broader sense beyond simply not using God’s name as a curse?
Can you identify examples in today’s culture where God’s name is misrepresented? What part have Christians played in this? How do you think that affects people’s perception of God?
When considering the full extent of what it means to be given God’s name to carry, are there areas in your life where you may be misusing his name?
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life? In what ways can you actively “take up” God’s name through prayer, speech, lifestyle, ministry and witness?
PRAYER
How can we pray for you as a group?
Next week: Exodus 20:8–11; Matthew 11:28–30; Hebrews 4:9–10
