The Name of God
An exploration of the significance and revelation of God's Name throughout Scripture.
1. The Old Testament Foundation
1.1 The Revelation of 'I AM'
Verses: Exodus 3:13-15
- Moses asks God for His name so he can tell the Israelites who sent him.
- God reveals Himself as 'I AM WHO I AM' (YHWH), signifying His eternal self-existence.
- This name is a memorial for all generations, signifying God's unchanging nature.
1.2 YHWH: The Most High
Verses: Psalm 83:18
- This verse declares that God, whose name alone is YHWH, is the Most High over all the earth.
- It emphasizes the uniqueness and supremacy of God.
- Understanding this name leads to reverence and worship.
2. The New Testament Fulfillment
2.1 Jesus: The Savior
Verses: Matthew 1:21
- The angel instructs Joseph to name the child Jesus, meaning 'The Lord saves'.
- This name reveals the purpose of Jesus's coming: to save humanity from their sins.
- The name Jesus connects His identity to the saving power of God.
2.2 Baptism in Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 2:38
- Peter commands repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
- Baptism in Jesus' name signifies identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
- It is through the name of Jesus that we receive forgiveness and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
2.3 Jesus: Revealer of the Father's Name
Verses: John 5:43; John 10:25; John 17:11-12
- Jesus came in His Father's name, indicating He represents and reveals the Father.
- Jesus performed miracles in His Father's name, demonstrating the Father's power working through Him.
- The disciples were kept in the Father's name through Jesus, showing the unity between them.
3. The Application of the Name
3.1 Living in the Name
Verses: Colossians 3:17
- Everything we do, in word or deed, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus.
- This signifies that our actions should reflect His character and purpose.
- It also means giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
3.2 The Power of the Name
Verses: Acts 4:12
- Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.
- This emphasizes the exclusivity and power of the name of Jesus.
- It calls for a complete reliance on Jesus for salvation.