What is in a name?

Sermon Title: "The Many Names of God: A Deeper Revelation of His Nature"

Opening Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with open hearts and minds, seeking to know You more intimately. As we dive into Your Word today, may the revelation of Your many names give us a greater understanding of who You are. Let these names resonate within us, transforming how we see You and how we relate to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Introduction:

Good morning, Church! Today, we are embarking on a journey into the heart of God by exploring the many names He has revealed to us in the Bible. Each name of God is not just a label, but a revelation of His character, His nature, and His relationship with us. In Scripture, names carry deep significance—they tell us more about the person’s essence and identity. When God reveals a name, He is inviting us to know Him more intimately.

Let’s begin by reflecting on a few of these names and what they reveal about the God we serve.

What’s in a name? That which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet; So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call’d, Retain that dear perfection which he owes Without that title.

1. Elohim – The Creator God

Scripture: Genesis 1:1 – "In the beginning God (Elohim) created the heavens and the earth."

The Bible opens with the name Elohim, revealing God as the Creator of all things. The plural form of Elohim speaks to the majesty and fullness of God's power and creativity. It also hints at the Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who were all involved in the creation process. Elohim speaks of God’s authority over the universe and His ability to bring order from chaos.

This name reminds us that we are created beings, made in the image of a creative God. He has the power to create new beginnings in our lives, no matter how broken or chaotic things may seem.

2. El Shaddai – The All-Sufficient One, God Almighty

Scripture: Genesis 17:1 – "When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, 'I am God Almighty (El Shaddai); walk before me faithfully and be blameless.'"

When God revealed Himself to Abraham as El Shaddai, He was declaring that He is more than enough to fulfill His promises. El Shaddai speaks of God’s might and sufficiency, His ability to meet all of our needs, even when our circumstances seem impossible.

In a world where we often feel inadequate or overwhelmed, knowing God as El Shaddai reassures us that He is our strength and our sufficiency. There is nothing too hard for Him, and we can trust in His power to sustain us.

3. Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Will Provide

Scripture: Genesis 22:14 – "So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide (Jehovah Jireh)."

Abraham called God Jehovah Jireh after God provided a ram to take the place of Isaac in the sacrifice. This name shows us that God sees our needs and provides for them in ways we may not expect.

Jehovah Jireh isn’t just about physical provision; it’s about God seeing ahead and making a way where there seems to be no way. He provides exactly what we need at just the right time. Whether it's financial, emotional, or spiritual needs, God is faithful to provide.

4. Jehovah Rapha – The Lord Who Heals

Scripture: Exodus 15:26 – "I am the Lord who heals you (Jehovah Rapha)."

Jehovah Rapha reveals God as our healer, not just of physical ailments but also of our hearts, minds, and souls. When the Israelites were in the wilderness and God healed the waters of Marah, He revealed that He is the source of all healing.

This name speaks directly to our need for wholeness. In a broken world filled with sickness, pain, and suffering, God stands as our healer, offering us hope and restoration.

5. Jehovah Nissi – The Lord is My Banner

Scripture: Exodus 17:15 – "Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is my Banner (Jehovah Nissi)."

After the Israelites defeated the Amalekites, Moses declared the Lord as Jehovah Nissi. A banner in ancient times was a symbol of victory, raised high for all to see. This name tells us that God is our victory in times of battle. He goes before us and fights for us.

When we face challenges or spiritual warfare, we can look to Jehovah Nissi, knowing that He has already won the battle. His banner over us is love and victory.

6. Jehovah Shalom – The Lord is Peace

Scripture: Judges 6:24 – "So Gideon built an altar to the Lord there and called it The Lord is Peace (Jehovah Shalom)."

In the midst of turmoil and war, God revealed Himself to Gideon as Jehovah Shalom. Peace is not just the absence of conflict; it is the presence of God. Jehovah Shalom brings peace to our hearts and minds even when the world around us is in chaos.

When we are anxious, fearful, or troubled, we can call on Jehovah Shalom to bring His peace that surpasses all understanding.

7. Jehovah Rohi – The Lord is My Shepherd

Scripture: Psalm 23:1 – "The Lord is my shepherd (Jehovah Rohi); I shall not want."

In Psalm 23, David refers to God as Jehovah Rohi, the Shepherd who leads, guides, and cares for His flock. As our Shepherd, God provides for us, protects us, and leads us to green pastures. He is intimately involved in our lives, guiding us on the right path and restoring our souls.

This name reminds us of God’s personal care and attention. We are not just a part of the crowd; we are individually known and loved by the Good Shepherd.

8. Immanuel – God With Us

Scripture: Matthew 1:23 – "They will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God with us’)."

Finally, we come to the name Immanuel, which is perhaps one of the most profound revelations of God. Through Jesus Christ, God became flesh and dwelt among us. He is not a distant deity, but He is with us, walking through every trial, every joy, and every moment of our lives.

Immanuel reassures us that we are never alone. God is with us in every season, and His presence is our greatest comfort.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on these many names of God, we are reminded of the richness of His character and the depth of His relationship with us. He is our Creator, our Healer, our Provider, our Peace, and so much more. Each name reveals another layer of His love, power, and faithfulness.

Whatever you are facing today, remember that God’s name is more than just a title—it is a promise. A promise that He will be everything you need Him to be. Call on His name and trust in His unchanging nature.

Closing Prayer:

Lord, we thank You for the many names by which You have revealed Yourself to us. May these names remind us of Your love, Your power, and Your faithfulness. Help us to call on You in every situation, knowing that You are more than enough. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Benediction:

May the Lord bless you and keep you, may His face shine upon you, and may you walk in the fullness of His many names, knowing that He is with you always. Go in peace, serving the Lord who is your Creator, Provider, Healer, and Shepherd. Amen.