His Name

We speak of God in generalities. Public prayers to God are acceptable, except to those who do not believe in an authority greater than themselves. Whether the ‘g’ is lower or uppercase, its use alone seldom generates the response that the name Jesus does.

Using Jesus’ name requires a reason for doing so – in worship, or without. A decision about Him is required.

And in his name shall the Gentiles trust. (Matthew 12:21 KJV)

And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47 KJV)

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (Matthew 18:20 KJV

For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. (Mark 9:41 KJV)

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. (John 14:13 KJV)

Many see in the above verse a promise that anything asked in Jesus’ name will be granted. Think not – read it again and recognize the variable – that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If what we ask does not glorify the Father through His Son, invoking His name is less than effective.

His name has power – the power to glorify and the power to offend. Right now there are attempts to have His name removed from public prayers. Removed from Christian military chaplains. His birthday celebration is being erased, replaced by a jolly fat man whose religious heritage is obscured. His death is no longer a holiday for companies. Instead, employees may choose it, or any other calendar day to celebrate anything they wish. Some may think that’s an enhancement, but it is a loss.

The choice to be made is whether or not He is the Son of God. If He is not, think of Him as you will. If He is, fight Him or even ignore Him at your own peril. Come to know Him and hear what He has to offer for eternity.

You know that He prayed for you, don’t you? Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; (John 17:20 KJV)