What’s In A Name ?

William Shakespeare asks the question in his play Romeo & Juliet – What’s in a name? In most names not much. They are simply a way of identifying and distinguishing a person. The names chosen usually reflect the tastes of the age and as the generations pass the popularity of any given name fluctuates. Sometimes names are chosen as a mark of affection or respect for another family member. For example it is not unusual for a child to bear the same name as a much loved grandparent. But overall there is not much to be learned from modern names.

However, the names which we find given to Biblical characters are somewhat different. They are often loaded with significance and profitable for study. Samuel is a good example. His birth was an answer to his mother’s prayers and his name which means “heard of God” reflects that. Further study along this line will teach valuable lessons concerning prayer.

The Lord Jesus Christ also possesses a significant name. His name speaks primarily of God’s salvation (Matthew 1:21) and will teach us many valuable lessons in this area.

His is a unique name. Salvation is to be found in no other name. As Peter reminds us “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

It is also an exceptional name. It is the name of the crucified Christ who died for our sins. It is the name of the living Christ who rose for our justification. It is the name of the glorified Christ who ever lives to make intercession for us. And it is the name of the returning Christ who goes forth conquering and to conquer.

Finally it is a needful name. To know Him not is to die and perish in your sins. But to know him is to possess life everlasting. As John the beloved disciple wrote, “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”