Is it considered taking the Lord's name in vain to say OMG or words like 'geez'?

Quick answer

Expressing acronyms like OMG (Oh, my God!) or "geez" (often used as an abbreviated form of Jesus), could indeed be sinful, depending on the intent we have behind what we say.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Words are powerful. As believers who represent Christ, we should make a concerted effort to use our speech to edify others and glorify God . With our words, we should bless God and others (James 3:9-10). Taking the Lord’s name in vain is clearly a sin, as highlighted in Exodus 20:7. It would, therefore, seem unwise to use variations of God’s name when speaking cavalierly . In every conversation and even every thought we have, our aim should be to “do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

The third of the Ten Commandments tells us not to take the Lord's name in vain: "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain" (Exodus 20:7). When we say “Oh my gosh!” or variations of it, we are inching toward taking God’s name in vain.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

As Colossians 3:17 teaches, "whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." We should make it our goal to glorify God with every word we say, knowing He sees our heart.

First Thessalonians 5:11 states, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." Our goal should be to find words to help others. Using questionable phrases such as OMG can create a barrier with some and provide the opposite effect.

In James 3:9-10, we are taught the importance of our words : "With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so." This can apply to vulgar language, gossip, bullying, and even irreverent uses of God's name or variations of it. While our intended meaning may not be to disrespect God, we can strive to improve even in small areas that can better show our faith in Christ and love toward others.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

When people use "Oh, my God!" as an exclamation, God's name is often used in an irreverent manner. The same principle could apply to the use of OMG, the same phrase in shortened form. This does not mean it is always used irreverently toward God, but it often is. Therefore, at the very least, Christians should be discouraged from using slang that others consider irreverent to God . The use of "Geez" is similar, though slightly different. Many use the word with no thought of its connection to the word Jesus. They are not using the Lord's name in vain since they are not even thinking about God when using the term. Again, however, when a term carries a meaning that many others consider irreverent, it would be best to find another expression to use. None of our words and actions should be a “stumbling block” to others (Romans 14:13). In our every word and thought, we should strive to “do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).

UNDERSTAND

Using phrases like "OMG" or "geez" can be sinful if they are used irreverently or disrespectfully towards God.

Christians are called to use speech that glorifies God and avoids dishonoring Him.

Even if phrases like "geez" aren't intended to be disrespectful, they can still create misunderstandings and should be used carefully.

REFLECT

How are you intentional to ensure that your speech reflects your reverence for God’s name?

How can you set guard over your mouth against casual exclamations and irreverent uses of God’s name in daily conversation?

What steps can you take to ensure your speech encourages and builds up others instead of causing offense or misunderstandings?

ENGAGE

What connections are there between our speech and our hearts or attitudes toward God?

Why do you think some people find it difficult to avoid using phrases like "OMG" or "geez"? How can we help each other be more mindful of our speech?

How can we encourage fellow believers to use language that honors God, even in seemingly minor situations like this?