February 1

PART II.

THE NAME JESUS GIVEN.

And thou shalt call his name Jesus.—Matthew 1:21.

WE have already considered the appropriateness of this precious name. Consider now its authority, influence, and power. This name is the authority by which the gospel is preached. Repentance and remission of sins are to be preached only in his name. (Luke 24:47.) The apostle, therefore, assured the high priest and rulers, that “there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12.) In like manner, also, we find that baptism was to be administered in his name. Hence, when the multitude under Peter’s sermon cried out “men and brethren, what must we do?” he said, “repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ.” So also, those who heard Paul preach at Ephesus “were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” This name is associated with all the duties of the christian life and character. We are to meet for public worship in his name. We are to offer up both our praises and supplications in his name. Yea, we are enjoined to do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Colossians 3:17.)

As this name is authoritative, so is it also amazingly powerful and influential. Devils fled before it. At its sound diseases vanished. When uttered aloud, the dead heard it and lived. Wherever it was preached, pagan temples became desolate, pagan altars were overthrown, and men were turned from dumb and senseless idols to the living God. And this name possesses all its original marvellous virtue and power. By it men are changed from darkness to light. By it we have forgiveness of sin, and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. It is this that gives power to preaching, solidity to ordinances, and efficacy to prayer. In one word—we have life, in all its comprehensiveness and perpetuity, in his name. (John 20:30.) Shall not this name, then, have a preeminence in our affections? Shall it not be the theme of our praises on earth, as it will assuredly be the burden of our songs in heaven. But this name demands our adoration, on account of its dignity and sacredness; our subjection, on account of its authority and power—"at the name of Jesus every knee should bow." (Philippians 2:10.) And it also especially demands our faith; for we are healed, accepted, and eternally saved, by faith in his name.

"Jesus! transporting sound!

The joy of earth and heaven;

No other help is found;

No other name is given

By which we can salvation have,

But Jesus came the world to save."