By

Shelby G. Floyd

A name distinguishes, describes or designates a person, place, or thing. Therefore, a name is very important. Approximately 700 B.C. Isaiah, promised a new name for God’s people:

“Even to them I will give in My house
And within My walls a place and a name
Better than that of sons and daughters;
I will give them an everlasting name
That shall not be cut off” (Isaiah 56:5).

Just a few chapters later the prophet added these words,

“For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace,
And for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest,
Until her righteousness goes forth as brightness,
And her salvation as a lamp that burns.
The Gentiles shall see your righteousness,
And all kings your glory.
You shall be called by a new name,
Which the mouth of the Lord will name. (Isaiah. 62: 1-2).

An analysis of these verses gives several facts of this new name. First, God gave the new name within the “house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). Therefore, after the establishment of the church God gave this new name.

Second, this name was better than the name of the children of men. And it transcended any man-made name because it originated from above.

Third, this everlasting name would not be changed. And it would last as long as time.

Fourth, after the righteousness of God went forth from Jerusalem as brightness, and the salvation thereof went forth as a lamp that burns, then God gave his people this new name. Salvation went forth from Jerusalem the day the church was established (Acts 2:1-47). Therefore, God gave the new name after the establishment of the church (Acts 2:36-47).

Fifth, this new name is for Jews and Gentiles. It is not restricted to the Jews only. After the Gentiles and Jews saw God’s glory, they did receive this new name!

Sixth, the first Gentile converted was Cornelius (Acts 10; 15:7). Shortly thereafter Barnabas and Paul called the disciples at Antioch “Christians” for the first time (Acts 11:26). This was a congregation made up of Jews and Gentiles. The new name of prophecy is therefore “Christian.” The church is composed of disciples named “Christians” by inspired writers! (Acts 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16). All children of God should rejoice to wear the name “Christian!”

Copyright © 2023 Shelby G. Floyd, All Rights Reserved

 

 

Shelby G. Floyd, Minister, Heartland Church of Christ, 1693 West Main Street, Greenwood, Indiana 46142

Shelby@sgf1964