The Law in Evangelism: Part Three

Part 3: Using the law in evangelism

I was having a conversation one day with a Mormon at my place of work. He mentioned that his god knew his heart. (by way of saying he thought he was a good person and his god knew that) I said I agreed, “God does know your heart, (Jeremiah 17:3) but what I don’t understand is that you take his name in vain so often.” He was confused and quickly said, “I don’t do that!” “Sure you do“, I replied, “every time you say oh my * you are using his name wrongly.” This took him by surprise, I’ve heard him many time use this phrase. He had believed there was nothing wrong with it, after all it’s just a saying…right? The truth is that when we use the name of our Lord, God Almighty, in a way that lowers His position and authority, as in the trite use expressing disgusts or amazement, or whatever the reason, we are committing blasphemy. But it goes farther than that. It encompasses lowering and not giving God His due honor and respect in regards to not just His name, but also His attributes, His law, His word, and works. (See the Westminster Shorter Catechism question 54)

The Severity of Blasphemy

The world does not see the gravity of this sin. They go about their days partaking in and enjoying this life and its pleasures; the food, the entertainment, and even our basic needs like water, shelter and air, and doing so without a thought of thankfulness. This particular sin seems innocuous to many because of its prevalence, but God will exercise His justice against those who take His glorious name in vain. (Deuteronomy 28:58-59).

Putting the Law in Evangelism into Practice

When speaking to a lost person I will ask if they have ever taken God’s name in vain. I will normally explain what I mean by pointing out its use in modern society. When they admit to committing this sin, I simply point out that this is called blasphemy and God takes it very seriously. God uses His law to bring conviction to a person’s hearts. It is this conviction that will produce repentance and faith in Christ and open the door of the Savior’s grace.

Psalm 19:7 “The Law of the Lord is perfect in converting the soul”