InstaStudy

The Revelation of the Divine Name

A comprehensive Bible study exploring the progressive revelation of God's names in the Old Testament, culminating in the supreme and saving name of Jesus.

1. The Progressive Revelation of God's Name in the Old Testament

1.1 El and Elohim: The Creator's Might

Verses: Genesis 1:1; Psalm 19:1
  • Reveals God's supreme power and role as the sole Creator of the universe
  • Denotes His plural majesty and greatness rather than a plurality of distinct persons

1.2 Yahweh: The Eternal Covenant Name

Verses: Exodus 3:14-15; Exodus 6:3
  • Represents the self-existent, eternal, and relational nature of God
  • The sacred covenant name revealed to Moses to establish a personal relationship with His people

1.3 The Compound Names of Jehovah

Verses: Genesis 22:14; Judges 6:24; Psalm 23:1
  • Reveals God's character progressively through human needs such as Provider, Peace, and Shepherd
  • Demonstrates that the one true God is the singular source of all human sufficiency

2. The Singularity and Oneness of God's Identity

2.1 The Shema and Absolute Monotheism

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29
  • Affirms the foundational biblical truth that the Lord our God is one Lord
  • Rejects any division of the divine essence, establishing strict monotheism as paramount

2.2 The Invisible Spirit Manifested

Verses: Isaiah 45:21-22; John 1:18
  • God is an omnipresent, invisible Spirit who cannot be seen in His essential divine essence
  • He chose to reveal Himself through various manifestations, preparing humanity for His ultimate revelation

3. The Culmination of the Divine Name in Jesus

3.1 The Name Above All Names

Verses: Matthew 1:21; Philippians 2:9-11
  • The name 'Jesus' literally means 'Yahweh-Saviour' or 'Jehovah has become salvation'
  • This supreme name inherits, encapsulates, and fulfills all the Old Testament names of God

3.2 The Fullness of the Godhead in Jesus

Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 14:9-10
  • All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Jesus Christ, not just a part of God
  • To see Jesus is to see the Father, as He is the visible image of the invisible God

3.3 The Singular Name in Apostolic Practice

Verses: Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38
  • The singular 'name' of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost is revealed and applied as Jesus
  • The Apostles understood this command by consistently baptizing converts in the name of Jesus Christ