Blood of Jesus! Right Call in Wrong Places.

By| Adejumo Adekunle-

In the New Testament, Philippians 2:10 declares, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” This scriptural command has guided Christians for centuries, affirming the sanctity of invoking the name of Jesus with reverence and purpose. Yet, as time has passed, it seems this holy name has been both misused and trivialized in ways that risk eroding its power and sacredness.

In English-speaking cultures, anything overused tends to lose its intended weight. Similarly, the name of Jesus has, in many instances, become too casually invoked. True reverence calls for restraint—using His name only in circumstances that align with its divine significance. In the biblical context, “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain,” as stated in Exodus 20:7, is a command with deep spiritual implications. It warns against using the holy name in ways that strip it of its honor and reverence.

However, today, the sacred name echoes not only within church walls but, ironically, in spaces disconnected from faith: clubs, betting shops, and even at crime scenes. People cry out “Jesuuuuussss!” in shock or distress, or as a mere expression of surprise. Such use can feel like the holy name is being dragged through situations far removed from the sanctity it deserves. Increasingly, it is in these settings, rather than during worship or prayer, that we hear the name of Jesus invoked.

To restore this name to its rightful place, spiritual leaders might need to re-emphasize the commandment: “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.” (Exodus 20:7). Reclaiming the reverence of this name is critical; to invoke it in vain is to detract from its purpose, filling it instead with the emptiness of human impulsivity.

The words of scripture and the wisdom of tradition remind us that a return to honor and restraint is necessary. To those who seek to walk wisely, let this serve as a gentle yet firm reminder: the holy name is powerful and deserves profound respect in every utterance.