The Names of God
Introduction
By: James Castruccio
1. What’s in a Name?
Our name is our very first identify. It is how we are known and how we know others. We typically learn a person’s name before we learn anything about them. Names are important.
My name is James Phillip Castruccio. I was named aHer my two Grandfathers; my Dad’s Dad, and my Mom’s Dad. Most people call me James. I tend to not answer to Jim as that is what people called my Dad and my Grandfather. Only my Grandmothers were allowed to call me Jimmy. One of my closest friends calls me J. Only two people can call me Dad and only one person can call me whatever she wants to. The point is that we all have several names throughout our life me. Those who know us more intimately know us by several names.
1.1. Name changes in the Bible
• Abram to Abraham
• Sari to Sarah
• Jacob to Israel
• Thomas to Doubting Thomas (not really, but one 3me he asks for proof, and he is still known by that name today)
• Saul to Paul
2. Why study God’s Names?
Remember Jesus’ prayer just before He went to Calvary,
John 17:3 (NIV), 3 Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
God’s name represents His character, His attributes, His nature.
2.1. To Honor His Name
As a follower of Jesus, we bear His name. Our behavior reflects His name.
Exodus 20:7, 7 “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
2.2. To Praise His Name
Psalm 8:1 (NIV), 1 Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens.
Psalm 9:2 (NIV), 2 I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.
Psalm 48:10 (NIV), 10 Like your name, O God, your praise reaches to the ends of the earth; your right hand is filled with righteousness.
Psalm 75:1 (NIV), 1 We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 76:1 (NIV), 1 God is renowned in Judah; in Israel his name is great.
2.3. His Name Protects
Proverbs 18:10 (NIV), 10 The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
Isaiah 50:10 (NIV), 10 Who among you fears the Lord and obeys the word of his servant? Let the one who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord and rely on their God.
Psalm 20:7 (NIV), 7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
Psalm 23:30 (NIV), 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.