The Supreme Name: A Study of Jesus
This study explores the profound significance, power, and authority of the Name of Jesus, revealing its central role in God's plan for humanity and its practical application in the life of every believer.
1. The Revelation of God's Name
1.1 God's Name Revealed in the Old Testament
Verses: Exodus 3:13-15; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 45:21-23
- God's self-revelation as the one true God, 'I AM'.
- Prophetic titles for the Messiah, such as 'Mighty God' and 'Everlasting Father', point to His divine nature.
- The Old Testament consistently declares there is no God beside Him.
1.2 The Name Above All Names
Verses: Philippians 2:9-11; Ephesians 1:20-23
- God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him a Name which is above every name.
- At the Name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess His Lordship.
- This Name signifies His supreme authority and dominion over all creation.
1.3 Jesus as the Fullness of God
Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 1:1,14
- In Jesus Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
- The Word, who was God, became flesh and dwelt among us.
- Jesus is the complete manifestation of God in human form.
2. The Power and Authority in the Name of Jesus
2.1 Healing and Miracles
Verses: Acts 3:6-8; Acts 4:10; Acts 16:18
- Miracles and healings are performed through the power and authority of Jesus' Name.
- The Name of Jesus brings supernatural intervention and restoration.
- This Name demonstrates divine power over sickness and infirmity.
2.2 Casting Out Demons
Verses: Mark 16:17; Luke 10:17
- Believers are given authority to cast out evil spirits in the Name of Jesus.
- Demons recognize and are subject to the power inherent in His Name.
- The Name of Jesus triumphs over all spiritual darkness and oppression.
2.3 Prayer and Intercession
Verses: John 14:13-14; John 16:23-24
- Whatever we ask in Jesus' Name, He will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
- Praying in His Name is our access to divine provision and intervention.
- The Name of Jesus validates our prayers and grants us audience with God.
3. The Name of Jesus in Salvation and Baptism
3.1 The Only Saving Name
Verses: Acts 4:12; Acts 2:21
- There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
- Calling on the Name of the Lord is essential for salvation.
- Salvation is exclusively found and received through the Name of Jesus.
3.2 Baptism in Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5
- Water baptism is commanded in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
- This New Testament pattern identifies believers with His death, burial, and resurrection.
- Baptism in His Name signifies our covenant with Him and the washing away of sin.
3.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit
Verses: Acts 2:38-39; Acts 19:6
- The promise of the Holy Spirit is for all who repent and are baptized in Jesus' Name.
- The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Jesus, empowering believers for service and witness.
- Receiving the Holy Spirit is a vital part of the New Birth experience.
4. Living by the Name of Jesus
4.1 Doing All in His Name
Verses: Colossians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 10:31
- Whatever we do in word or deed, we are to do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus.
- Our actions and words should reflect His character and authority.
- Every aspect of our lives should bring glory and honor to His Name.
4.2 Bearing His Name
Verses: Acts 9:15; 1 Peter 4:14
- We are called to be His witnesses, carrying His Name to the nations.
- To suffer for the Name of Christ is a blessing and a privilege.
- Bearing His Name means representing Him faithfully in the world.
4.3 Glorifying His Name
Verses: Romans 15:6; Hebrews 13:15
- Our lives should be a continuous offering of praise and glory to the Name of Jesus.
- Through Him, we offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His Name.
- The ultimate purpose of our existence is to magnify and glorify the Name of Jesus.