THE POWER AND AUTHORITY OF HIS NAME
(Jn 14:13–14; Mt 28:19; Acts 3:6; Phil 2:9–11; Col 3:17)
Biblical Identity and Primary References
Jesus Christ, whose name means “Yahweh saves” (from Hebrew Yeshua), is the eternal Son of God made flesh. His name is not a mere label but a revelation of His identity, mission, and divine authority. The angel commanded Mary and Joseph to name Him Jesus “because he will save his people from their sins” (Mt 1:21; Lk 1:31). Major references emphasizing the power of His name include Jn 14:13–14; Mt 28:19; Acts 3:6; Acts 4:12; Phil 2:9–11; Col 3:17.
Historical and Cultural Background
In Jewish thought, a name expressed the essence and mission of a person. To know someone’s name meant to know their authority and character. God revealed His own sacred name to Moses as “I AM” (Ex 3:14), signifying divine presence and power. Similarly, the name of Jesus was understood by the early Christians as carrying divine authority. Calling upon His name was not magical but covenantal—it was a declaration of trust, allegiance, and faith in who He truly is.
Detailed Biblical Biography
Jesus’ name was announced by the angel Gabriel even before His conception (Lk 1:31). Throughout His ministry, He revealed that His name carried divine authority. He taught His disciples to pray to the Father in His name, promising, “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do” (Jn 14:13). After His resurrection, He commanded His apostles to baptize in the Trinitarian name (Mt 28:19).
In the Acts of the Apostles, Peter healed the lame man by declaring, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk” (Acts 3:6). Paul expelled demons and healed the afflicted in the same name (Acts 16:18). These events show that Jesus’ name was inseparable from His living presence and power.
References in Other Parts of the Bible
St. Paul teaches that God exalted Jesus and gave Him “the name that is above every name” (Phil 2:9–11). The Psalms had foretold that God’s name would be a refuge (Ps 20:7; Ps 91:14). The prophets spoke of salvation being invoked through God’s name (Joel 2:32), a promise fulfilled in Christ (Acts 2:21).
Jewish Tradition and Understanding
In Jewish tradition, the name of God was treated with utmost reverence. The Tetragrammaton (YHWH) was not spoken casually. By identifying salvation with the name of Jesus, the early Christians were making a radical claim: divine power now resided personally in Christ. This is why the use of His name was both scandalous and revolutionary.
Catholic Interpretation and Teaching
The Catholic Church teaches that the name of Jesus is sacred and powerful because it expresses who He is and what He accomplishes. “The name of Jesus contains all: God and man and the whole economy of creation and salvation” (CCC 2666). The Church prays, baptizes, blesses, heals, and absolves sins in His name. The Holy Name of Jesus is venerated liturgically, especially in the Feast of the Most Holy Name of Jesus.
Connection to Salvation History
The name “Jesus” reveals His salvific mission: He saves. Just as God’s name was central to Israel’s covenant, so now Jesus’ name becomes the new covenantal sign of divine presence, authority, and mercy. Salvation is no longer abstract—it is personal, invoked through the name of Christ (Acts 4:12).
Typology and New Testament Fulfillment
Joshua (Hebrew: Yehoshua, meaning “The Lord saves”) prefigures Jesus by leading Israel into the Promised Land. Jesus fulfills this typology by leading humanity into eternal life. Where Joshua brought physical deliverance, Jesus brings eternal salvation.
What Makes This Person Unique
No other name in Scripture is associated so explicitly with divine authority, healing, forgiveness, and salvation. The name of Jesus is not symbolic alone—it is sacramental, effectual, and living.
Strengths and Virtues
Jesus reveals humility, mercy, authority, obedience, and redemptive love. He does not wield His name as domination but as salvation.
Weaknesses, Failures, or Sins
Jesus is without sin. His willingness to allow His name to be mocked, misused, and misunderstood reveals His humility and patience.
Lessons for Christian Leadership and Witnessing
Christians are baptized into His name and bear His identity. Leadership in the Church is exercised not in personal power but in the authority of Christ’s name. Every word, action, and ministry must reflect His character (Col 3:17).
Reflection
To pray in Jesus’ name is not merely to add a phrase—it is to surrender our will to His. It means aligning our desires with His mission. The name of Jesus calls us to live as His representatives in the world. If we bear His name, our lives must proclaim His love, holiness, and truth.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You whose name is above every name, teach us to honor Your holy name with our lips and our lives. Let every word we speak and every action we perform reflect Your mercy, truth, and love. May Your name be glorified in us, and may we become living witnesses of Your saving power. Amen.