The Power and Authority of Jesus' Name
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound significance of the name of Jesus, emphasizing its unique role as the bridge between heaven and earth. Jesus, being fully God and fully man, serves as the ultimate mediator, connecting the divine with the temporal. This dual nature allows Him to operate in both eternity and time, making His name not just a label but a powerful conduit for divine authority and intervention. The name of Jesus is not merely a word to be repeated; it carries the weight of authority and is reserved for those who are authorized to use it. This authority is akin to having a legal right to transact spiritual business with God, a privilege that comes through a genuine relationship with Jesus.
We also discussed the importance of community in our spiritual journey. Having brothers and sisters in Christ who know and can invoke the name of Jesus is crucial, especially when we face challenges that we cannot overcome alone. These individuals, regardless of their material wealth, possess a richness in faith that can help us connect with Jesus in profound ways. The name of Jesus is a trademarked name, reserved for those who have been authorized to use it, much like a key that unlocks the door to divine intervention and support.
Furthermore, we highlighted the distinction between the general use of the name "God" and the specific invocation of "Jesus." While the name of God can be interpreted in many ways, the name of Jesus is precise and direct, often causing discomfort because it demands a specific acknowledgment of who God is. This specificity is why the name of Jesus holds such power and why it is essential for believers to understand and utilize it correctly.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Dual Nature of Jesus: Jesus, as both fully God and fully man, uniquely connects heaven and earth. His divine nature allows Him to reach into eternity, while His human nature enables Him to operate within time. This duality makes His name a powerful bridge for divine intervention. [01:03]
2. Authority in the Name of Jesus: The name of Jesus is not just a label but a source of divine authority. It is reserved for those who have a genuine relationship with Him, granting them the legal right to transact spiritual business with God. This authority is akin to having a key that unlocks divine intervention. [03:26]
3. Community and Connection: Having a community of believers who know and can invoke the name of Jesus is crucial. These individuals, rich in faith, can help us connect with Jesus, especially when we face challenges beyond our control. Their spiritual wealth is invaluable in our journey. [05:43]
4. Specificity of Jesus' Name: While the name "God" can be interpreted in many ways, the name "Jesus" is specific and direct. This specificity often causes discomfort because it demands a clear acknowledgment of who God is, highlighting the unique power and authority of Jesus' name. [04:18]
5. Legal Rights Through Jesus: Invoking the name of Jesus gives believers legal rights to transact spiritual business with God. This privilege is reserved for those who are authorized, emphasizing the importance of a genuine relationship with Jesus to access divine support and intervention. [06:51]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:19] - Jesus as Mediator
- [00:36] - The God-Man Connection
- [01:03] - Heaven and Earth Bridge
- [01:25] - The Job Description of Jesus
- [02:05] - Authority in Jesus' Name
- [02:35] - The Power of a Name
- [03:26] - Jesus' Authority in Heaven and Earth
- [04:05] - The Specificity of Jesus
- [04:37] - Authorized Users Only
- [05:18] - The Importance of Community
- [05:58] - Rich in Faith
- [06:30] - Legal Rights Through Jesus
- [07:05] - Spiritual Business with God
- [07:42] - Conclusion and Reflection
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. 1 Timothy 2:5 - "For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus."
2. 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.'"
3. James 2:5 - "Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?"
Observation Questions:
1. What does 1 Timothy 2:5 reveal about the role of Jesus as a mediator between God and humanity? How does this relate to His dual nature as both God and man? [00:19]
2. In Acts 3:6, why does Peter emphasize the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth when performing the miracle? What does this suggest about the authority of Jesus' name? [07:05]
3. According to James 2:5, how does God view those who are poor in the eyes of the world, and what does this imply about the value of faith over material wealth? [06:30]
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Jesus' dual nature as both fully God and fully man enable Him to serve as a bridge between heaven and earth? What implications does this have for believers today? [01:03]
2. The sermon mentions that the name of Jesus is "trademarked for authorized users only." What does it mean to be an "authorized user" of Jesus' name, and how does one become authorized? [04:37]
3. Why might the specificity of invoking the name of Jesus cause discomfort or controversy, as opposed to the more general use of the name "God"? [04:18]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your personal relationship with Jesus. Do you feel you have the "legal right" to use His name in prayer and spiritual matters? Why or why not? [06:51]
2. Consider a challenge you are currently facing. How can you involve your community of believers to support you in invoking the name of Jesus for divine intervention? [05:43]
3. How can you ensure that your use of Jesus' name in prayer is not just a repetition of words but a genuine invocation of His authority and presence? [02:05]
4. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper understanding of Jesus' role as a mediator in your daily spiritual practices?
5. Think about a time when you relied on material wealth or status rather than faith. How can you shift your focus to being "rich in faith" as described in James 2:5? [06:30]
6. How can you be more intentional in acknowledging the specific power and authority of Jesus' name in your conversations with others, especially those who may not share your faith? [04:18]
7. Identify one area in your life where you need divine intervention. How can you actively seek Jesus' mediation in this area through prayer and community support? [01:25]
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus as the Divine-Human Bridge
The dual nature of Jesus as both fully God and fully man is a profound mystery that serves as a bridge between heaven and earth. This unique nature allows Him to operate in both the eternal and temporal realms, making His name a powerful conduit for divine intervention. Jesus' divine nature enables Him to reach into eternity, while His human nature allows Him to operate within time, connecting the divine with the temporal. This duality is not just a theological concept but a reality that impacts our daily lives, offering us a direct connection to the divine through His name. [01:03]
Hebrews 4:14-16 (ESV): "Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
Reflection: In what ways can you consciously acknowledge and rely on Jesus' dual nature as both divine and human in your daily challenges and spiritual journey?
Day 2: Authority in the Name of Jesus
The name of Jesus is not merely a label but a source of divine authority, reserved for those who have a genuine relationship with Him. This authority is akin to having a legal right to transact spiritual business with God, granting believers the power to invoke divine intervention. The name of Jesus carries the weight of authority and is a privilege for those who are authorized to use it, much like a key that unlocks the door to divine support and intervention. Understanding and utilizing this authority is crucial for believers to access the fullness of God's power in their lives. [03:26]
Acts 4:10-12 (ESV): "Let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
Reflection: How can you deepen your relationship with Jesus to more effectively wield the authority of His name in your spiritual life?
Day 3: The Power of Community in Faith
Having a community of believers who know and can invoke the name of Jesus is crucial in our spiritual journey. These individuals, rich in faith, can help us connect with Jesus, especially when we face challenges beyond our control. Their spiritual wealth is invaluable, providing support, encouragement, and a deeper connection to the divine. In times of difficulty, the faith of others can be a lifeline, helping us to access the power and authority of Jesus' name in profound ways. [05:43]
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (ESV): "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken."
Reflection: Who in your community can you reach out to for spiritual support, and how can you be a source of faith and encouragement for others?
Day 4: The Specificity of Jesus' Name
While the name "God" can be interpreted in many ways, the name "Jesus" is specific and direct, often causing discomfort because it demands a clear acknowledgment of who God is. This specificity highlights the unique power and authority of Jesus' name, setting it apart from other names and titles. Understanding the distinctiveness of Jesus' name is essential for believers, as it carries a unique power that demands recognition and respect. This specificity is not just a theological point but a practical reality that impacts how we approach God and invoke His power in our lives. [04:18]
Philippians 2:9-11 (ESV): "Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
Reflection: How does the specific and direct nature of Jesus' name challenge you in your understanding and relationship with God?
Day 5: Legal Rights Through Jesus
Invoking the name of Jesus gives believers legal rights to transact spiritual business with God. This privilege is reserved for those who are authorized, emphasizing the importance of a genuine relationship with Jesus to access divine support and intervention. Understanding this legal right is crucial for believers, as it empowers them to engage with God in a meaningful way, accessing His power and authority in their lives. This concept of legal rights through Jesus is not just a theological idea but a practical reality that impacts how we live out our faith daily. [06:51]
Ephesians 2:18-19 (ESV): "For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God."
Reflection: What steps can you take to strengthen your relationship with Jesus, ensuring you are authorized to invoke His name and access the divine support He offers?
Quotes
Jesus as the god man because he's fully God he reaches heaven because he fully man he reaches history because he's fully God he exists in eternity because he's fully man he operates in time because he's fully God he can connect with up there but because he's fully man he can relate to down here see Jesus the name above all names is not just a name he's the name whose job description is to connect heaven with earth that's his full-time job as the mediator and the intercessor his job is to connect heaven with earth. [00:47:01]
If you know that name you got that connection if you don't know that name then you don't have that connection so if you don't know that name you better have some folk in your life who do you need some brothers or sisters in your life who know that name look look because the name is not merely nomenclature when says in the name of Jesus he's talking about the authoritative use of the name. [00:104:04]
He meant among people going around saying Jesus Jesus Jesus Jesus Jesus Jesus Jesus did he's talking about that he's talking about the authority cut look if I walk up to the White House and said my name is Tony Evans and I need you to let me in they're gonna say who they're gonna say what they gonna say we don't know you in other words your name has no clout in this house your name you need your name has no meaning in this location. [00:136:15]
Now if you come to Oakland Bible fellowship and say Tony Evans at least for a few people I got a need an okay if I'm a fellowship my name is known I can send the security to do this and do that what because in this house now about 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue des lieux got nothing I mean doesn't mean anything in this house I can get some things God because my name means something here it doesn't mean something bad let me tell you about Jesus's name it means something up there and down here. [00:167:53]
Jesus says all authority belongs to me in heaven and on earth I've got clout in both locations equally at the same time listen if all you know is the name of God you don't have the right name not because God's name in great God's name is great but what God has done is authorized the second member of the Trinity Jesus Christ to operate in history from heaven it is your connection with Jesus. [00:206:35]
Look you go all over the place and name the name God and nobody's gonna be offended because nobody will know who you're talking about because God comes in all different shapes and sizes and you can mean a million different things just by saying God now once you bring up the name Jesus you have to find God very specifically very directly and very immediately and that's why the problem come as well when they asked me to come pray for the City Council they said username God but don't mention Jesus. [00:245:14]
Because now you've gotten God's specific he didn't just say in the name of God he said in the name of Jesus because that name has been trademarked for authorized users only you say but I call out the name of Jesus but are you an authorized user so you called out the name doesn't mean anything if you have not been authorized to use it that's why when when those folks were trying to get the demons to come out of that demon-possessed person they said in the name of Jesus we we call you out the demons looked at him and said say Jesus we know Paul we know who who in the world are you in other word we don't see any authorization. [00:282:13]
That's why you need to have a community of brothers and sisters who you are close enough to who when you are in a bagging situation you have you been locked down with a with an addiction a situation you can't fix you need to be in touch with some folk who can connect you to Jesus whether or not they have silver or gold there's ain't got nothing do with what their bank account looks like in fact it may be the folk who don't have silver and gold who's had to be in touch with Jesus long enough to help you get to Jesus because they have learned to depend on Jesus in a way you haven't learned that you've been hanging out with folk poorly satisfied you bring in a church not bring you to Jesus. [00:340:94]
Well as James puts it I've called the poor to be rich in faith see because I know we like to hang out with phonebook and do something for us okay well the folk who know Jesus can do something for you so here's what happens Jesus's name gives you legal right to transact spiritual business with God let me say it again Jesus's name gives you legal right to transact spiritual business with God. [00:390:00]
Jesus's name gives you legal rights to transact business with God in other words he gives you legal access to God when it comes through an authorized agent of his in the name of jesus the nazarene walk but then verse 7 and seizing him by the right hand he raised him up. [00:422:43]
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