By Ron Bartanen Via Bulletin Gold
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none
other name given among men whereby we must be saved”
(Acts 4:12).
The name referred to by which we are saved is “the name
of Jesus Christ” (4:20z0. His is the name which is above
every name…the name before which every knee shall bow
(Philippians 2:8-10. The name signifies one’s power and
authority. Jesus commissioned His apostles to preach
“repentance and remission of sins…in His name…” (Luke
24:47). The power to become sons of God is given “to them
that believe on His name” (John 1:12). The convicted
multitude at Pentecost were commanded to “Repent and be
baptized.. in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of
sins” (Acts 2:38). Christians are admonished, “Whatsoever
you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus”
(Colossians 3:17).
Faith, repentance, baptism and Christian worship and
service are all in the name of Jesus Christ, not in the name
of religious leaders or churches. Why, then, do some wear
human names in religion? To paraphrase Paul, who opposed
the wearing of his name: “Is Christ divided? Was (your
denomination or preacher) crucified for you? Or were you
baptized in the name of (your denomination or preacher)?”
(1 Corinthians 1:13). Human, denominational names give
honor to others than to Christ, and divide those who claim
faith in Christ. We urge all to honor Christ alone in faith
and obedience.