How can we apply the promise of a "new name" in our lives? Anchored in Revelation 3:12 Revelation 3:12: “The one who overcomes, I will make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will never again leave it. Upon him I will write the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God (the new Jerusalem that comes down out of heaven from My God), and My new name.” Why a New Name Matters • A name in Scripture signals identity, purpose, and ownership. • Jesus promises three inscriptions—God’s name, the city’s name, and Christ’s own new name—declaring permanent belonging, citizenship, and intimacy. • Because the words are trustworthy, we anticipate a literal, visible marking in the age to come and a present-day identity shift right now. God’s Track Record of Changing Names • Abram → Abraham (Genesis 17:5) – father of many nations. • Sarai → Sarah (Genesis 17:15) – royal mother. • Jacob → Israel (Genesis 32:28) – one who wrestles and prevails. • Simon → Peter (John 1:42) – a rock on which the church would stand. • Each change came with fresh mission and promise; ours is no different. Scriptures Echoing the Promise • Isaiah 62:2: “You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow.” • 2 Corinthians 5:17: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come.” • Revelation 2:17: “I will give him a white stone inscribed with a new name, known only to the one who receives it.” • 1 Peter 2:9: “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession.” • Philippians 3:20: “Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” What the New Name Signals for Us Today • Security – no one can erase what Christ writes (John 10:28). • Identity – we are defined by the Lord, not by past failure or present culture. • Mission – pillars hold weight; we stand firm to display God’s glory. • Hope – our future address is the New Jerusalem; earthly loss is never final. Practical Ways to Live Out the Promise • Speak the truth of your new identity aloud each morning—“I belong to God; I am heaven’s citizen; I carry Christ’s name.” • Replace old labels (failure, orphan, addict) with God-given ones (beloved, child, free). • Memorize and personalize key verses (above) to silence accusation. • Walk in “pillar” stability: keep commitments, uphold truth, support the church body. • Celebrate communion with the forward look to the wedding supper, when the name becomes visible. • Encourage other believers by calling them what God calls them—saints, heirs, servants, friends. Verses to Carry with You • Isaiah 56:5; Isaiah 65:15; John 1:12; Galatians 2:20. • Review them during commutes, workouts, or family devotions. Final Encouragement The God who renamed patriarchs and apostles has already stamped His claim on every overcomer in Christ. Live today as someone whose future badge is secure: God’s name above you, New Jerusalem around you, and Jesus’ own new name upon you. |
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