Mark 1:1 New Living Translation
“This is the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.”
We say His name...we celebrate the day of His birth...we fixate on His teachings...and we mourn His death, in spite of the fact that we all know He rose from the dead 3 days later. We claim to know Him and attempt to live for Him, but seriously, exactly who is Jesus?
According to certain sources there are over 200 names for Jesus in scripture. We already know from the verse above that Jesus is called the “Son of God”. This shone a light on his special relationship to God. He is also called the “Son of Man” which revealed his human identity. He is referred to as the “Son of David” because he is a direct descendant of King David. Jesus is called the “Word” because he reveals God. He is called the “Lamb of God” because he is the sinless sacrifice that atoned for all the world’s sin. He is called “Christ”, the “Anointed One” of God. He is called “Savior”, for only he is the One who saves. He is called “Rabbi” (Teacher) because he taught his followers about the things of God. He is called the “Alpha and Omega”, the beginning and end of all things because He is. He is the “Lion of Judah”, the title given for the Messiah. He is the “King of Kings and Lord of Lords”, which signifies that he is the ruler over all people. He is the “Bright Morning Star” for he is the One who gives true light. He is the “Word of God” for he is the voice of God to the people. These and more are listed throughout the New Testament as identifiers for Jesus of Nazareth.
There are several names listed for Jesus in the Book of Isaiah in the Old Testament as well. Jesus is called “Immanuel” which means “God with us”. It’s the name the Angel told Mary and Joseph to call the baby. He is referred to as the “Prince of Peace” because he is the bringer of everlasting peace. He is called “Wonderful Advisor/Counselor” for he will always rule with honesty and justice. He is called “Mighty God” for he is supreme over all his creation, and he is call the “Eternal Father” simply because he is eternal; there is no beginning or end to him.
The Advent Season is a special time when we reflect not only on the baby Jesus and his coming into the world, but all the events and people that were a part of this historic time. I’ve tried to cover events and individuals that I thought would shed some additional light on the holiday season. Regardless of what this dying, sin sick world may think, Christ is the reason for the season and the Savior of the world. We must never be so consumed with what the holiday has become to forget its’ true meaning. No amount of good deeds will ever win one entrance into heaven. Only receipt of the one true and eternal gift of forgiveness and a changed life will open your door to eternity with the Lord. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
In His name & for His glory,
Rich Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
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