Topical Encyclopedia The name "Jesus Christ" holds profound significance within Christian theology, embodying the essence of the Christian faith and the person of the Savior. The name "Jesus" is derived from the Hebrew name "Yeshua," which means "Yahweh is salvation" or "The Lord saves." This name was divinely appointed, as the angel instructed Joseph in a dream: "She will give birth to a son, and you shall give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21).The title "Christ" is derived from the Greek word "Christos," meaning "Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah." This title signifies Jesus' divine mission and His fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming Savior. In the Gospel of John, Andrew declares to his brother Simon Peter, "We have found the Messiah" (which is translated as Christ)" (John 1:41), affirming Jesus as the long-awaited Anointed One. Throughout the New Testament, the name of Jesus Christ is central to the message of salvation and the foundation of the Christian faith. Acts 4:12 states, "Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." This underscores the exclusivity and power of Jesus' name in the context of redemption and eternal life. The name of Jesus is also associated with authority and power. In Philippians 2:9-11 , the Apostle Paul writes, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This passage highlights the universal recognition and reverence due to Jesus' name, reflecting His divine authority and lordship. In prayer and worship, the name of Jesus is invoked as a source of strength and intercession. Jesus Himself taught His disciples to pray in His name, promising, "And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son" (John 14:13). This practice underscores the belief in the mediating role of Jesus and the power inherent in His name. The name of Jesus Christ is also a symbol of unity and identity for believers. In 1 Corinthians 1:10 , Paul appeals to the church, "I urge you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction." Here, the name of Jesus serves as a rallying point for unity and shared purpose among Christians. In summary, the name of Jesus Christ is rich with theological meaning, encompassing His role as Savior, His divine authority, and His central place in the life and faith of believers. It is a name that commands reverence, inspires worship, and unites the Christian community in its mission and identity. |