A person's name holds significant importance for several reasons.
In summary, a name is much more than just a label; it is a powerful symbol of identity, heritage, and social connection.
That introduction brings me to the main point of this editorial which is to encourage the church to use the NAME of JESUS far more than has been our custom.
TRAGICALLY, the church of JESUS CHRIST within the English-speaking world has adopted the popularized Germanic term “god” when referring to THE CREATOR! The ETYMOLOGY of “god” reveals that the noun initially meant “libation” or “that which is invoked.”
“God” essentially has little what-so-ever to do with the GOD of the BIBLE.
As we approach the END of TIMES, I believe that it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT when referring to “GOD” to use the “NAME that is above ALL NAMES!”
EVERY KNEE WILL BOW AND EVERY TONGUE CONFESS THAT JESUS IS LORD OF LORDS!
Think for a moment of global religions having to state, “JESUS IS LORD OF LORDS!”
A devout Muslim can say “GOD IS GREAT!” However, a devout Muslim would never state, “JESUS IS GREAT!”
Can you imagine the impact that the church would have if instead of using the noun, “god”, we would use the NAME “JESUS?”
Can you envision the impact we would have if we constantly said, “PRAISE JESUS” instead of “PRAISE THE LORD!”
Watch a person's reaction if we were to substitute the NAME "JESUS" for "GOD" in Genesis 1! “In the beginning, JESUS created the HEAVENS and the EARTH.”
It would open a lot of doors for further explanation that "he who hath seen JESUS, HAS SEEN THE FATHER!"
Can you imagine the reaction if we were to habitually state, “Tomorrow, I plan to do this or that if JESUS WILLS!”
How about, “PRAISE JESUS from WHOM all blessings flow!”
I know that this could ruin a lot of our songs that refer to “GOD”, but I am increasingly convinced of the importance of LIFTING UP THE NAME OF JESUS that I am beginning to apply this new resolve in my daily living with the obvious exception of hymns and Gospel songs.
My concern about using the noun "GOD" also applies to my use of the term, “LORD.”
Most ANY RELIGION referring to their deities could use the terms interchangeably “LORD” or “GOD” but NOT IN ANY WAY SHAPE OR FORM be referring to our TRIUNE GOD! This leads me to also want to substitute the NAME, “JESUS” for when I normally use the term “LORD.”
"JESUS BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU!"
For this 75-year-old, it is going to be a “STRETCH” to make the change, but I am resolved to try to do so. I challenge you to prayerfully consider doing the same.
MAY JESUS RICHLY BLESS YOU AND YOURS!
- Firstly, it is a fundamental part of one's identity. Our names are often the first thing we learn to recognize and respond to, and they become a core part of how we see ourselves and how others perceive us.
- Secondly, names carry cultural, familial, and historical significance. They can reflect our heritage, honor ancestors, and convey meanings or values that are important to our families. For example, some names are chosen to reflect virtues, commemorate loved ones, or connect to cultural traditions.
- Moreover, names play a crucial role in social interactions. They are the primary way we address and refer to each other, making communication more personal and respectful. Using someone's name correctly can foster a sense of belonging and respect, while misusing or forgetting it can lead to feelings of alienation or disrespect.
- Lastly, names can influence our lives in subtle ways. Studies have shown that names can affect people's perceptions of us, including assumptions about our background, personality, and even our potential. This phenomenon, known as the "name-letter effect," suggests that we may be subconsciously drawn to things that resemble our names.
In summary, a name is much more than just a label; it is a powerful symbol of identity, heritage, and social connection.
That introduction brings me to the main point of this editorial which is to encourage the church to use the NAME of JESUS far more than has been our custom.
TRAGICALLY, the church of JESUS CHRIST within the English-speaking world has adopted the popularized Germanic term “god” when referring to THE CREATOR! The ETYMOLOGY of “god” reveals that the noun initially meant “libation” or “that which is invoked.”
“God” essentially has little what-so-ever to do with the GOD of the BIBLE.
As we approach the END of TIMES, I believe that it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT when referring to “GOD” to use the “NAME that is above ALL NAMES!”
EVERY KNEE WILL BOW AND EVERY TONGUE CONFESS THAT JESUS IS LORD OF LORDS!
Think for a moment of global religions having to state, “JESUS IS LORD OF LORDS!”
A devout Muslim can say “GOD IS GREAT!” However, a devout Muslim would never state, “JESUS IS GREAT!”
Can you imagine the impact that the church would have if instead of using the noun, “god”, we would use the NAME “JESUS?”
Can you envision the impact we would have if we constantly said, “PRAISE JESUS” instead of “PRAISE THE LORD!”
Watch a person's reaction if we were to substitute the NAME "JESUS" for "GOD" in Genesis 1! “In the beginning, JESUS created the HEAVENS and the EARTH.”
It would open a lot of doors for further explanation that "he who hath seen JESUS, HAS SEEN THE FATHER!"
Can you imagine the reaction if we were to habitually state, “Tomorrow, I plan to do this or that if JESUS WILLS!”
How about, “PRAISE JESUS from WHOM all blessings flow!”
I know that this could ruin a lot of our songs that refer to “GOD”, but I am increasingly convinced of the importance of LIFTING UP THE NAME OF JESUS that I am beginning to apply this new resolve in my daily living with the obvious exception of hymns and Gospel songs.
My concern about using the noun "GOD" also applies to my use of the term, “LORD.”
Most ANY RELIGION referring to their deities could use the terms interchangeably “LORD” or “GOD” but NOT IN ANY WAY SHAPE OR FORM be referring to our TRIUNE GOD! This leads me to also want to substitute the NAME, “JESUS” for when I normally use the term “LORD.”
"JESUS BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU!"
For this 75-year-old, it is going to be a “STRETCH” to make the change, but I am resolved to try to do so. I challenge you to prayerfully consider doing the same.
MAY JESUS RICHLY BLESS YOU AND YOURS!