Happy Friday!
We’re continuing our April Series today with the names of Jesus.
These are all names that Jesus gave to Himself, and all of which were pointing to special roles he was ready to fulfill. A few refer back to the Old Testament promises of the coming Messiah, and others He used to help people understand Him.
1. Son of Man
This name appears to be His favorite reference to Himself. It showed His humanity, but the way He used it, was also a claim to divinity. (John 6:27)
2. Bread of Life
This name points to the O.T. and the bread used in the Tabernacle, but overall, it refers to His life-giving role, and that He was the only way to eternal life. (John 6:35)
3. Light of the World
Light is often seen as a symbol of spiritual truth and righteousness. (John 8:12)
4. Gate for the sheep
Jesus is the only way to God the Father. (John 10:7)
5. Good shepherd
This name focuses on Jesus’ loving guidance. Psalm 23 is a beautiful picture of how a loving shepherd protects and guides his sheep. (John 10:11)
6. The resurrection and the life
Jesus is the source of all life (Col. 1:15-20) and with His resurrection, He also defeated death itself! (John 11:25)
7. The way, the truth, and the life
This name summarizes Jesus’ purpose in coming to earth. (John 14:6)
8. The Vine
The second part of this phrase is very important for us. It states, “and you are the branches.” Just as the branch of a tree receives all its life from the vine and cannot live apart from it, we as the branches are completely dependent upon Jesus for all of our spiritual life. (John 15:1)
Which of the names of Jesus is your favorite and why?
**summarized from Life Application Study Bible, NIV, Zondervan
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