Feb. 02, 2025

“What’s in a NAME?”

Luke 2:21-23

The name “Jesus” is the name that God chose to give His Son.  It is not only a meaningful name, but it has a significant impact on every aspect of your life in Christ.  The name “Jesus” means “Savior”; of course, it’s fitting since He is the One God sent to earn your salvation!  Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) God named His Son “Jesus” to show you His mercy and grace.  God was telling every creature in the universe, in one word, that His goal was the redemption and salvation of mankind.   God the Father was sending a message to every single person that said, "I have not forgotten you, nor forsaken you. I love you and I have sent someone special for you:  Jesus, and He is your Savior.” Often, we do not even realize the significance that the Name of Jesus has on you. It starts in Holy Baptism, where God puts His Name on you, including the Name of Jesus. (Matthew 28:19) In the Lord’s prayer we ask that His Name will be holy among us.  In the Second Commandment, we are taught how to use the Name of Jesus properly. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:17) The Name of Jesus forms and shapes our life in Christ --- from first to last and into eternity.

Questions:

1.    What did the angel tell Joseph that the child’s name should be?

2.    Why is Jesus’ name important?

3.    How is his name “put” on us?