Name
“Name, reputation, character; possibly from a root meaning 'to set a mark'”
Summary
In Scripture, a name is far more than a mere label—it expresses the character, nature, and significance of a person or thing. The name of God represents His revealed character and authority, and the name of Jesus carries all the power and presence of Christ Himself.
☩Personal Names in Scripture
Oriental proper names have special significance, which is often alluded to or explained in the Old Testament. Names were given in reference to remarkable circumstances at birth, peculiarities of constitution, hopes for the future, or as expressions of endearment. Sometimes names had prophetic meaning, as when Isaiah named his son Maher-shalal-hash-baz. Many Hebrew names were compounded with the names of God—El or Yah—expressing religious devotion. A change of name often indicated a transformed character or new relationship with God, as when Abram became Abraham, Jacob became Israel, and Simon became Peter.
☩The Name of God
The 'name' of God in Scripture represents His revealed character. God revealed Himself to Israel through Moses by His name Jehovah (Yahweh), which was to be shown by His manifestations on their behalf. To 'call upon the name of the Lord' is to worship Him; to act 'in His name' is to act with His authority. The sacred name was so revered that later Jews would not pronounce it, substituting 'Adonai' (Lord) when reading Scripture. Where God is said to put His name in a place, some special Divine manifestation is implied, making that place sacred to Him.
☩The Name of Jesus
In the New Testament, the name of Jesus represents His character, dignity, authority, and even His very Personality. The name 'Jesus' means 'Savior,' given because 'He shall save His people from their sins.' To believe 'in His name' is to believe in Him as manifested in His life and work. To act 'in the name of Jesus' means with His authority and in His character. The early church performed miracles, preached, baptized, and suffered all 'in the name' of Jesus, representing His presence and power.
☩New Names
God giving a new name implies His giving a new nature and relationship. Abraham received his new name when entering the covenant. Jacob became Israel after wrestling with God. In Revelation, Christ promises to give His overcoming saints 'a new name' that only they will know, signifying their special relationship with Him. Christians receive their new name at baptism, baptized 'into the name' of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, indicating living union with the Triune God.
Related Verses947 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Name," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VI (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Name," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Name," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).