Q 71: What promise does the Lord hold out to the redeemed in the third commandment?

A 71: In exchange for their obedience to the third commandment the Lord promises to hold His people guiltless and thus to continue with them in all their ways. (Ex. 20.7; Deut. 5.11; Matt. 28.18-20; Heb. 13.5)

By walking faithfully in the Name of the Lord we, of course, keep ourselves from everything that might be vain or merely self-serving, making the most of every opportunity for knowing, enjoying, serving, and glorifying the Lord (Eph. 5.15-17; 1 Cor. 10.31). Thus, the Lord, acknowledging our faithfulness, remains with us always, and all the blessings and privileges that attend to His presence. As we keep the third commandment, by the power of His Spirit, we may be assured that our consciences will be clean before the Lord and that He will continue with us to guide, direct, and bless our way. As the presence of Lord brings fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore (Ps. 16.11), this is an end to be above all else desired at all times, and it is the promise held out to all who walk faithfully according to the third commandment.

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