You know, a name is an interesting thing; it’s more than just a word. A name is a symbol of the person who bears it. The more acquainted I become with you, the more the seeing or hearing of your name will affect me. Now with that in mind, there is one name we frequently hear and speak as Christians that is more important than any other on earth. Please consider:

After the Savior’s resurrection and ascension into heaven, Peter and John were one day entering the temple. It was around 3:00 in the afternoon. As they passed through the gate called ‘beautiful’ they saw a man lame from his birth, begging for a handout.

Peter stopped and said to the man, “…Look on us...” (Acts 3:4)

The man looked at them expecting to receive something. And I dare say that he was not expecting what he got.

Peter then said, “…Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” (Acts 3:6)

Peter took the man by the hand “…and lifted him up…” (Acts 3:7) and immediately his legs received strength, and he stood for the first time in his life. Now as far as I know, Peter performed no corrective surgery, nor did he apply any kind of a brace to help that man stand. He simply spoke a name in faith, and a power was unleashed and set in motion that flowed into the body of that man and healed him. Obviously, that is no ordinary name.

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Well, when word got out of what Peter had done, he was questioned by the Jews.

“… By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?” they asked. (Acts 4:7)

Boldly, Peter declared, “…by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth…doth this man stand here before you whole?” (Acts 4:10) And then Peter added this vital truth, “…there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

Now, I wonder sometimes if we use that name as though it were nothing more than a way to end a talk or close a prayer. I hope not. I hope we understand that that sacred name represents and unlocks the power and authority of God unto our happiness and salvation. All the power of the atonement is embodied within that name. No wonder we are commanded to be careful how we use it. May we so be.