The Power to Name
There is a mindset that presents a unique strength that is only found through the Holy Spirit. This mindset is not an unbridled strength, but it is docile and used to proclaim the power that is experienced because of Jesus Christ. This power is received because the believer in Jesus Christ knows they are now named by Jesus to be a new creation and a child of God.
Acts 26:6-14
Paul explained how he strived to oppose “the name of Jesus of Nazareth” (Acts 26:9), but Jesus approached Paul with power on the way to Damascus and told him “It is hard to kick against the goads” (26:14). The term goad describes a stinger or prod, which is used to guide livestock. Jesus explained that Paul was actively deciding to kick against the plan of God and therefore the power of God. God’s plan for humanity started at Creation. God named every major element of creation as well as naming Adam, but one unique thing God allowed Adam to do is name all the kinds of animals as well as naming his wife. God charged mankind to have dominion over the earth (Gen. 1:28). To experience this power is to listen to the one who named you.
Acts 26:15-18
Paul was sent in the name of Jesus to minister to the Gentiles. Why he was picked to have such a unique encounter and charge, we do not know. But we do know Paul took what he knew of God’s Scriptures and converted his efforts from opposing the name of Jesus to inviting people into a relationship with Jesus. This new path that Jesus invited Paul to gave him a purpose in which to use the power that God gives when he names us. Too often we release this power to the name of our sin and struggle, forgetting that Jesus breaks that bondage and association. When we take steps to declare the goodness and glory of Jesus, we invite the power of God to be shared with others around us. Take a step of faith because Jesus has renamed you, and strengthen your knowledge by knowing what the Scriptures say concerning God’s people.
Acts 26:6-14
Paul explained how he strived to oppose “the name of Jesus of Nazareth” (Acts 26:9), but Jesus approached Paul with power on the way to Damascus and told him “It is hard to kick against the goads” (26:14). The term goad describes a stinger or prod, which is used to guide livestock. Jesus explained that Paul was actively deciding to kick against the plan of God and therefore the power of God. God’s plan for humanity started at Creation. God named every major element of creation as well as naming Adam, but one unique thing God allowed Adam to do is name all the kinds of animals as well as naming his wife. God charged mankind to have dominion over the earth (Gen. 1:28). To experience this power is to listen to the one who named you.
Acts 26:15-18
Paul was sent in the name of Jesus to minister to the Gentiles. Why he was picked to have such a unique encounter and charge, we do not know. But we do know Paul took what he knew of God’s Scriptures and converted his efforts from opposing the name of Jesus to inviting people into a relationship with Jesus. This new path that Jesus invited Paul to gave him a purpose in which to use the power that God gives when he names us. Too often we release this power to the name of our sin and struggle, forgetting that Jesus breaks that bondage and association. When we take steps to declare the goodness and glory of Jesus, we invite the power of God to be shared with others around us. Take a step of faith because Jesus has renamed you, and strengthen your knowledge by knowing what the Scriptures say concerning God’s people.
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