Definition of a name (Philippians 2:9-10) According to Oxford advanced learner's Dictionary , a name is a word or words that a particular person, animal, place or thing is known by. The word 'nama', it is akin to Old High German. As a word or term used for identification, name identifies class, category, things or a single thing; either uniquely or within a given context.
BIBLICAL CONCEPT OF A NAME
One of the things that all people and places have in common is a NAME. Have you ever asked yourself this question, 'What does my name mean? ' most people have some idea about the meaning and origin of their names, but others do not.
In the Old Testament, the names of some individuals were changed: Abram and his wife, Sarai were renamed "Abraham" and "Sarah", when they were told they would be the father and mother of many nations (Genesis 17:4-15). Simon was renamed "Peter" when he was given the keys of heaven (Mathew 16) etc.
In Christianity, the name of Jesus, as used or referred to in the NEW Testament, was adopted from the Jewish context of that age; while others were selected to refer to and underscore the message, mission and teaching of Jesus. In times past, some of these titles gathered christological significance.
WHAT IS IN A NAME?
The power of a name and it's values have long been immortalized in prose, poetry and religious ceremony. Everyone recognizes himself or herself by a name. "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches"; this is because character supports a man in many circumstances, and goes further than all of this riches. We should be more careful to do that by which we may get things and keep a good name, than raise or add a great estate to our many possession and be given a bad name. (Luke 2:53).
THE NAME OF JESUS (Philippians 2:9)
Over the past 200 years, more people on planet Earth have known the name of Jesus more than any other name. Since 33AD, over 8 million people, by one estimate, have claimed to be followers of Jesus; billions more have heard of his name. Presently, the name of Jesus can be found on over 6000 languages;more are being added every year.
The name of Jesus carries power, authority and distinction. It is strange that this single name has dominated the last 2000 years of the world's history, especially the Western history. For most of us JESUS has a sacred ring to it; it sounds holy and divine. In Greek, JESUS was "yesous"; in aramaiac, the language JESUS spoke, He is called 'Yesu'. Both are derived from the Hebrew word which is Yeshua or Joshua.
Conclusion for part one
The name of JESUS is above every other name. Through this name, so many souls are saved, restored, delivered, healed and made whole.No other name is more powerful, awesome or significant. The reality of this is experienced by Christians who are true believers, as they can live without doubts and enjoy a life devoid of failures. The lines are fallen unto you in pleasant places, PRAISE GOD.
