Names often carry deep meaning in the Bible, and changing a name can signify transformation. Today, we’ll explore what Scripture teaches about identity and new beginnings.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Changing Jobs
What Does The Bible Say About Changing Name
Genesis 17:5
“No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations.”
This verse showcases the power of God to transform and change a person’s identity. God changed Abram’s name to Abraham, signifying his new role as the father of many nations. It demonstrates God’s ability to bring about significant changes in our lives and fulfill His promises.
Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of embracing our new identity in Christ. Just as Abraham embraced his new name, we are called to embrace the new identities we have in Christ, leaving behind our old ways and stepping into the fullness of who God has called us to be.
Genesis 32:28
“Then the man said, ‘Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.'”
This verse marks the pivotal moment in Jacob’s life when his name was changed from Jacob to Israel. The change in name signifies a change in character and identity, representing Jacob’s transformation and growth in his relationship with God.
Similarly, this verse reminds us that when we encounter God and overcome the challenges we face, He can redefine our lives and give us a new name that reflects our victory and spiritual growth.
Isaiah 62:2
“The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow.”
This verse speaks of the future restoration and exaltation of Israel. It reveals that those who belong to God will be given a new name by the Lord Himself, highlighting their righteousness and glory in His eyes.
As believers, we can find assurance in this verse as it indicates that God sees and values us differently from how the world sees us. He bestows upon us a new name, signifying our identity as His beloved children and our privileged position in His Kingdom.
Revelation 2:17
“Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.”
This verse presents a promise to those who are victorious in their faith. It reveals that those who persevere and overcome in their spiritual journey will be given a white stone with a new name written on it, unknown to anyone else but the recipient and God.
It signifies a personal and intimate relationship with God, as well as the recognition and reward for their faithfulness. This verse encourages believers to press on, knowing that there is a special identity and destiny that awaits them, known and bestowed only by God Himself.
Isaiah 56:5
“To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.”
In this verse, God promises His faithful servants an everlasting name that surpasses the value of having sons and daughters. It symbolizes the eternal significance and worth that God grants to His people.
Here, we are reminded that our earthly names and identities may fade away, but the name given to us by God, the name that reflects His character and love, will endure for eternity. It is a reminder of our eternal inheritance and the precious relationship we have with Him.
Acts 4:12
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
This verse reinforces the pivotal identity and significance of the name of Jesus Christ. It declares that salvation can be found in no one else but Him, emphasizing the exclusive role and authority of Jesus as the Savior of humanity.
As believers, we are called to recognize the power and uniqueness of the name of Jesus, understanding that our transformation, redemption, and eternal salvation are found solely in Him. This verse encourages us to embrace the name of Jesus and proclaim it boldly to those who have yet to experience His saving grace.
Acts 9:15
“But the Lord said to Ananias, ‘Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.”
In this verse, God reveals His purpose for Paul’s life, commissioning him to proclaim His name to different groups of people. It highlights the significance of sharing the name of God with others, irrespective of their cultural or religious backgrounds.
Similarly, this verse reminds us of our calling as Christians to be ambassadors of Christ, who proclaim His name and bring the message of salvation to all nations. It emphasizes the importance of boldly declaring the name of Jesus and sharing the good news of His love and forgiveness.
Philippians 2:9-11
“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
This powerful passage highlights the supreme authority and exaltation of Jesus’ name. It declares that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, revealing the ultimate honor and reverence that should be given to His name.
As believers, this passage reminds us of the unparalleled importance and power of the name of Jesus. It encourages us to exalt His name in our lives, acknowledging His lordship and bringing glory to God through our worship and obedience.
Acts 19:17
“When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor.”
This verse demonstrates the impact and significance of the name of Jesus in the lives of believers and the wider community. It reveals that when people encountered the reality and power of Jesus’ name, they held it in high honor and reverence.
As Christians, we are called to live in a way that brings honor and respect to the name of Jesus. Our words, actions, and character should reflect His love, grace, and truth, leading others to hold His name with reverence and awe.
Acts 3:6
“Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.'”
This verse demonstrates the authority and power that believers have in the name of Jesus. Peter performs a miraculous healing in Jesus’ name, showing that it is not through his own strength or resources, but through the name of Jesus that miracles can occur.
As followers of Christ, we are given the privilege of using the name of Jesus in our prayers, declarations, and ministry. This verse encourages us to have faith in the name of Jesus and to boldly use it to bring about transformation and restoration in the lives of those around us.
John 14:13-14
“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.”
These verses emphasize the power and authority of praying in the name of Jesus. Jesus assures His disciples that whatever they ask in His name, He will do for them, demonstrating the Father’s glory and the unity between the Father and the Son.
As believers, we can approach God with confidence, knowing that when we pray in the name of Jesus, our prayers are heard and answered according to His will. This passage encourages us to pray in faith, trusting in the name of Jesus to bring about the Father’s purposes and glorify His name.
John 16:23
“In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.”
These words of Jesus reveal the truth that through His name, we have direct access to the Father and the assurance that our prayers will be answered. Jesus promises that whatever we ask in His name, the Father will give us.
This verse encourages us to approach prayer with boldness and confidence, knowing that our requests in the name of Jesus will be met by the Father’s abundant grace and love. It reminds us of the privilege we have as believers to invoke the powerful name of Jesus in our prayers.
Proverbs 18:10
“The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”
In this verse, the name of the Lord is described as a fortified tower, a place of refuge and safety for the righteous. It speaks of the inherent strength and protection found in calling upon the name of the Lord.
As believers, we find comfort and security in the name of the Lord. It is a source of strength and peace in the midst of life’s struggles. This verse encourages us to run to the name of the Lord and seek refuge in Him, knowing that He is our ultimate source of safety and deliverance.
Psalms 116:13
“I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD.”
This verse expresses the psalmist’s gratitude and devotion as they lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. It reflects a heart filled with praise and a recognition of God’s deliverance and salvation.
Similarly, as followers of God, we are called to continually lift up the name of the Lord, acknowledging His goodness, faithfulness, and salvation in our lives. This verse encourages us to develop a habit of worship and thanksgiving as we call upon the name of the Lord in all circumstances.
Jeremiah 10:6
“No one is like you, LORD; you are great, and your name is mighty in power.”
This verse acknowledges the greatness and power associated with the name of the Lord. It affirms that no one can compare to God, emphasizing His uniqueness and limitless authority.
As believers, this verse invites us to reflect on the awe-inspiring nature of God’s name. It reminds us of His majesty and strength, encouraging us to approach Him with reverence and worship. The power of His name is a source of inspiration and confidence in our journey of faith.
Psalm 29:2
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.”
These words encourage us to give glory and honor to the name of the Lord through worship and adoration. We are called to acknowledge the greatness and holiness of His name, recognizing that He alone is worthy of our praise.
As believers, this verse reminds us of our responsibility to ascribe glory to God’s name not only in our words but also through our actions. It invites us to worship Him with reverence and awe, acknowledging the splendor of His holiness in all aspects of our lives.
Psalm 54:1
“Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate me by your might.”
In this verse, the psalmist calls upon the name of God for salvation and deliverance. It expresses a cry for help and a plea for God to demonstrate His power and sovereignty.
As believers, we can draw encouragement from this verse as we face difficult situations and challenges. It reminds us of the power and authority of God’s name to rescue and vindicate His people. It encourages us to place our trust in the name of the Lord and seek His intervention in times of trouble.
2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
These powerful words highlight the responsibility and privilege of being called by the name of God. They lay out the conditions for repentance, forgiveness, and restoration as God calls His people to humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways.
This verse is a reminder of the transformative power of God’s name and the power of prayer. It encourages individuals and communities to embrace this process of repentance, knowing that God will respond with forgiveness, healing, and restoration.
John 20:31
“But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”
In this verse, John states the purpose of his gospel, which is to lead people to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. He emphasizes that through faith in Jesus’ name, believers can experience abundant and eternal life.
This verse reminds us of the centrality and significance of Jesus’ name in our faith. It is through believing in Him and trusting in His redemptive work that we receive the gift of salvation and the promise of eternal life. It encourages us to place our faith in the name of Jesus and experience the fullness of life that comes through Him.
Romans 10:13
“For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'”
This verse proclaims the universality and inclusiveness of salvation through Jesus’ name. It states that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved, emphasizing the impartiality and accessibility of God’s grace.
This verse provides assurance and hope to all who place their trust in the name of Jesus. It serves as a reminder that salvation is available to anyone who calls upon His name, regardless of their past, background, or circumstances. It invites us to respond to God’s invitation of salvation and experience the transformative power of His grace.
1 Peter 4:14
“If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.”
This verse speaks of the blessing and honor that believers receive when they are insulted or persecuted for the name of Christ. It reminds us that our identification with Jesus and our willingness to bear His name may result in opposition but also signifies the presence and favor of God.
This verse encourages us to embrace the privilege of bearing the name of Christ, even in the face of adversity. It reminds us that our suffering and challenges in His name are not in vain, but rather an indication of the Spirit’s indwelling and the eternal reward that awaits us.
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
These words of Jesus assure us of His presence when believers come together in His name. They reveal that when we gather in unity and in the authority of Jesus’ name, He is present in their midst.
This verse emphasizes the power and significance of community and fellowship among believers. It encourages us to prioritize gathering together in Jesus’ name, knowing that His presence and authority will bring unity, strength, and a deeper experience of His grace and love.
Colossians 3:17
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
This verse challenges believers to live their entire lives, both in words and deeds, in a way that honors and glorifies the name of the Lord Jesus. It reminds us that every aspect of our lives should be marked by gratitude and the reflection of Christ’s character.
These words encourage us to examine our actions, thoughts, and motives, ensuring that everything we do aligns with the name of Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of having integrity and authenticity in our faith, putting the name of Jesus at the forefront of all we undertake.