Are there double standards re taking God's name in vain?

[Salonika]

I’ve just replied to a thread about dealing with a 14 year who uses the name of the Lord in vain. Decided to start a new thread as the result of something that came to mind as I was doing so.

Over the years I have noticed that some non-Christians take the name of God and/or Jesus in vain, sometimes intentionally and sometimes not. However, they are often upset when the names of the main religious figures of other religions are put down and would not think of using their names as swear words.

When I have suggested, somewhat tongue in cheek, that they spread their profanities around the other main religious figures they have said no as that would be insulting to them. When I say isn’t what you are doing insulting to Christians, they look at me surprised and disagree. Why can’t they see this?

Have other people on this forum experienced this? How do you respond to it?

 

[Feedmysheep]

When I have suggested, somewhat tongue in cheek, that they spread their profanities around the other main religious figures they have said no as that would be insulting to them. When I say isn’t what you are doing insulting to Christians, they look at me surprised and disagree. Why can’t they see this?

Honestly, I’d remove any trace of humor or light-heartedness from the discussion, and instead explain very clearly and with great sorrow how much it hurts you to hear the name of your Savior used in such a manner. That, given the love you have for God, it is as if they are taking the name of your father, or mother, or brother and using it as a swear word.

Then with charity and sincerity, say that you would never think of disrespecting Moses, or Mohammed, or Krishna, or whatever by turning their names into curses.

Finally ask them to please demonstrate this same courtesy around you and refrain from using Jesus’ name in such a manner.

If you practice, you’ll get it down to 3-4 eloquent sentences, and if said with sincerity and charity, it will give the other person pause to think.

Something like:
“It really hurts me to hear Jesus’ name used like that. I love Him so much, it’s as if you’ve taken my own brother’s name and flung it around. I would never dream of using Moses’ (or Mohammed, or whomever) name in such a way, knowing how much it would hurt you- could you please do the same for me?”

 

[Newbie2]

It bothers me when someone (and I have relatives who do it),casually slip out an “OH, C*T" or "JS” when they find something particular amusing.

I think the casual nature of taking the Lord’s name in vain is just as bad, maybe even worse (because it seems “softer”) than using it when mad at something or someone.