The Revelation of His New Name: Understanding Revelation 3:12
This study explores the profound meaning of Jesus' "new name" in Revelation 3:12, examining the biblical significance of names, the ultimate revelation of God's identity in Jesus, and the implications for those who overcome.
1. The Power and Purpose of a Name in Scripture
1.1 Names as Revelations of Identity and Character
Verses: Genesis 32:27-28; Exodus 3:13-15; Isaiah 9:6
- Biblical names are not mere labels but convey essence and destiny.
- God's names reveal His attributes and relationship with humanity.
- Understanding a name is to understand the person.
1.2 God's Progressive Revelation Through His Names
Verses: Genesis 17:1; Exodus 6:2-3; Psalm 83:18
- From El Shaddai to Yahweh, God revealed Himself incrementally.
- Each name unveiled a deeper aspect of His nature and power.
- These names prepared humanity for the ultimate revelation.
2. Jesus: The Fullness of God's Name and Nature
2.1 The Name Jesus as the Embodiment of God's Salvation
Verses: Matthew 1:21; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9-11
- The name Jesus means "Yahweh saves" or "Jehovah is salvation."
- It is the only name given for salvation and redemption.
- Every knee will bow and every tongue confess this name.
2.2 Jesus as the Manifestation of the One God
Verses: John 10:30; John 14:9; Colossians 2:9
- In Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
- Seeing Jesus is seeing the Father, for He is the Father manifested in flesh.
- He is the one God, revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
3. Unpacking "My New Name" in Revelation 3:12
3.1 "My New Name" as a Deeper Revelation of Jesus' Identity
Verses: Revelation 1:8; Revelation 22:13; Hebrews 13:8
- The "new name" is not a different name, but a renewed understanding of the existing name.
- It signifies Jesus' complete authority, eternal nature, and ultimate triumph.
- It encompasses His past, present, and future roles as the Alpha and Omega.
3.2 The Name Jesus Encompassing the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Verses: Matthew 28:19; Luke 24:47; Acts 2:38
- The name "Jesus" is the singular name of the one God, encompassing all His titles and manifestations.
- Baptism in the name of Jesus fulfills the command to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- This name represents the full redemptive power and presence of God.
3.3 The Name Written on the Overcomer
Verses: Revelation 3:12; Revelation 22:4; Isaiah 62:2
- Receiving His new name signifies intimate identification and ownership by God.
- It marks the overcomer as belonging to Him and bearing His character.
- This name is a seal of victory and eternal security.
4. Living as an Overcomer Bearing His Name
4.1 The Call to Overcome
Verses: Revelation 2:7; Revelation 21:7; 1 John 5:4-5
- Overcoming involves faith in Jesus and perseverance through trials.
- It is a continuous process of spiritual victory over the world, flesh, and devil.
- The promise of the new name is for those who endure to the end.
4.2 The Authority and Power in His Name for Overcomers
Verses: Mark 16:17-18; John 14:13-14; Acts 3:6
- Believers are empowered to do mighty works in the name of Jesus.
- Prayer in His name carries divine authority and receives answers.
- The name provides power over sickness, sin, and demonic forces.