Introduction

The act of calling on Jesus is a central tenet of Christian faith, reflecting a believer's reliance on the Savior for salvation, guidance, and sustenance. This practice is deeply rooted in Scripture and is essential for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The Bible emphasizes the power and necessity of invoking His name in various contexts, underscoring its significance in the life of a believer.

Biblical Foundation

The importance of calling on Jesus is established in both the Old and New Testaments. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul writes, "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Romans 10:13). This verse highlights the universality and accessibility of salvation through Jesus Christ, affirming that calling on His name is a requisite for redemption.

In the Book of Acts, the early church exemplifies this practice. When Peter addresses the crowd at Pentecost, he quotes the prophet Joel, saying, "And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Acts 2:21). This declaration underscores the continuity of this principle from the Old Testament to the New Testament era.

Salvation and Deliverance

Calling on Jesus is intrinsically linked to the concept of salvation. The name of Jesus is synonymous with deliverance from sin and eternal death. In Acts 4:12, Peter boldly proclaims, "Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved" . This exclusivity of Jesus as the source of salvation emphasizes the critical nature of calling upon Him.

Furthermore, the act of calling on Jesus is not limited to the moment of conversion. It is a continual practice for believers seeking deliverance from trials and tribulations. The Psalms often reflect this sentiment, as seen in Psalm 50:15: "Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me" . This promise of deliverance is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who invites believers to cast their burdens upon Him.

Prayer and Relationship

Calling on Jesus is also an expression of prayer and communion with God. It signifies a personal relationship with the Savior, characterized by trust and dependence. Jesus Himself encourages this practice, as seen in John 14:13-14: "And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it" . This assurance of answered prayer highlights the power and authority vested in the name of Jesus.

The Apostle Paul further emphasizes the importance of prayer in Philippians 4:6-7: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" . Calling on Jesus in prayer is a means of accessing divine peace and guidance.

Authority and Power

The name of Jesus carries inherent authority and power, which believers are encouraged to invoke. In Mark 16:17-18, Jesus outlines the signs that will accompany those who believe: "In My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not harm them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be made well" . This passage illustrates the transformative power available to believers who call on Jesus' name.

The early church demonstrated this authority in Acts 3:6, where Peter heals a lame man by declaring, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" . This miracle, performed through the invocation of Jesus' name, serves as a testament to the divine power accessible to believers.

Conclusion

The practice of calling on Jesus is foundational to the Christian faith, encompassing salvation, prayer, and the exercise of spiritual authority. It is a vital expression of a believer's relationship with Christ, reflecting trust, dependence, and the acknowledgment of His lordship. Through calling on Jesus, believers access the fullness of God's promises and the transformative power of His presence.