THE NAME

READ: Philippians 2:5-11

God also has highly exalted Him …, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow. – Philippians 2:9-10

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Luke 14-17

Jesus! No other name draws people together so closely, while at the same time evoking hatred in others.

In 1999, a political candidate answered a question about who had the greatest effect on his life by saying, “Jesus Christ. He changed my heart.” This person’s honest answer was met with disdain from people who detest the name of Jesus.

On the other hand, people all over the world who love Christ meet every week to honour and praise Jesus’ name. To them, His name means love, joy, peace, hope, and forgiveness.

What is it about this name that divides people so clearly? Why do some treat the name of Jesus with contempt while others hold it in highest esteem? I think the reason some people can’t stand Jesus’ name is that they don’t want to be reminded of their sins. Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), the One who saves us from our sins (Matt. 1:21). People who refuse to ask for forgiveness from sin cannot love the name of Jesus. Yet His name “is above every name,” and one day “every tongue [will] confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Phil. 2:9, 11).

Jesus! Do you love that name? Praise God for that holy name – and tell others what He has done for you. – Dave Branon

Jesus – O how sweet the name,

Jesus – every day the same;

Jesus – let all saints proclaim

Its worthy praise forever. – Martin

We honour God’s name when we call Him our Father and live like His Son.