Articles
What's in a Name?
Without a doubt, the name “Jesus” is the most controversial name in the world. While its
use is permitted as a curse word in the workplace, any other use of it can be considered
harassment. The fact that so many people are offended by the name “Jesus” provides credible
evidence that it must be more than just a name. Such names as John, Elizabeth, James, Ruth, or
Esther — all biblical names — cause no embarrassment and are offensive to no one. Why is the
name “Jesus” so despised by modern cultures? I believe there are three reasons:
1. BECAUSE OF ITS MEANING. Jesus means Savior. The angel proclaimed; “You shall call
His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Since some of us
do not want to admit any need for a Savior, we hesitate to recognize that one exists, for fear that
people will think we need saving. I have news for you: we do! We are all drowning in a “sea of
sin” until Jesus, the Savior, rescues us.
2. BECAUSE OF THE PERSON. Jesus is the personification of perfection. He is the light that
dispels the darkness. But, “Men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil”
(John 3:19). To be saved, we must be willing to come out of darkness and step into the light of
Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul told Agrippa that his mission was to turn men from “darkness to
light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins” (Acts
26:18).
3. BECAUSE OF ITS EXCLUSIVITY. “There is no other name under heaven given among
men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Like it or not, we will all someday bow before
Jesus and confess that He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God.
~ Donald W. Raub, Adapted from Pulpit Helps
via White Rock church of Christ, Dallas, TX
