The Name Game
Opening Prayer
“Prince of Peace,” Alpha and Omega”: consider some other names for Jesus you can remember. Praise him for them.
Read Acts 3:1-10
[1] One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer-at three in the afternoon. [2] Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. [3] When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. [4] Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” [5] So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. [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.” [7] Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. [8] He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. [9] When all the people saw him walking and praising God, [10] they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
How did the man and the people react to the healing?Instead of buying a ticket, I mentioned the name of the band’s bass player to the box office attendant and, after checking the guest list, she let me in free. The glorious power of a name! As Peter and John approach the temple gate called Beautiful and see a lame man begging, they also mention a name. But on this occasion the outcome was far more remarkable than free entry to a concert. What took place was a creative miracle that set the whole place buzzing with amazement (10). This lame man, like many beggars on our streets today, was seen at the same location every day. Maybe we respond to beggars by keeping our gaze down, or by diverting our eyes, but Peter and John act differently. They stop and look the man straight in the face. Then, in the name of Jesus, Peter commands him to walk (6). This was no ordinary name, but the miracle-making, death-slaying name of Jesus, the Son of God and King above all other kings. Clearly, Peter and John had confidence in the name and great courage to use it. Instantly the man walked. God was seen and God was praised.
Apply
How confident are you in the name of Jesus? Where might that name make needed changes in your world?
Closing prayer
Lord Jesus, Your name is still wonderful and powerful today. I want to see it change my world, too.
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