What’s in a Name? 

Luke 3: 15-17; 21-22  

Names have always been important.  One of the privileges of being a parent is that of naming a child. Parents want to be sure to give their child the right name, and one the child will like as s/he grows older. Names are cyclical—they move from popularity to out of favor. Some names like Paul, Michael, Peter, Paul, and Joseph, never loose their  trend.  The name ,“Jesus,” was a very common name in biblical times. It literally meant “The Lord saves.” John the Baptist, Jesus’ forerunner, understood the  meaning of his cousin’s name and his cousin’s mission.  He knew that the name “Jesus” would be the name that made the difference  But how does this name make a difference in your life?

 1. HIS NAME IDENTIFIES YOU WITH HIS FAMILY.           

 We are a part of the family of God.

2.   HIS NAME IDENTIFIES YOU WITH HIS KINGDOM.            

 We are called to do his work.

3. HIS NAME IDENTIFIES YOU WITH HIS BAPTISM            

  Baptism is “a mark” of service.

4.   HIS NAME IDENTIFIES YOU WITH JESUS HIMSELF.            

  Jesus is the model of humanity.

 Shakespeare asked that famous question: “What’s in a name?”  Our only answer must be “Everything, if that name is Jesus, the name that makes a difference.”