How can we apply the promise of a "new name" in our lives? The Text at a Glance “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written, known only to the one who receives it.” (Revelation 2:17) Why a New Name Matters • In Scripture, a name speaks to identity, calling, and destiny. • A “new name” promises more than a label; it signifies a God-given, eternal identity that cannot be marred by sin, failure, or the opinions of others. • The white stone underscores acceptance—much like an ancient verdict of acquittal—while the inscription signals personal intimacy with Christ. Biblical Moments of Renaming • Abram → Abraham: “for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations.” (Genesis 17:5) • Sarai → Sarah: “I will bless her, and she will become nations.” (Genesis 17:15-16) • Jacob → Israel: “you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed.” (Genesis 32:28) • Simon → Cephas (Peter): “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas.” (John 1:42) • Saul → Paul: “Saul, who was also called Paul…” (Acts 13:9) These examples show: 1) God initiates the change. 2) The new name aligns with a new purpose. 3) The renaming marks a fresh start grounded in covenant promises. Living Now in Light of the Coming Name 1. Rest in God’s verdict. • Romans 8:1—“Therefore there is now no condemnation…” • The promised white stone reminds us daily that Christ’s righteousness defines us, not past sin. 2. Walk in a new identity. • 2 Corinthians 5:17—“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” • Live like someone already renamed—choices, relationships, and self-talk aligned with who God declares you to be. 3. Cultivate intimacy with Jesus. • John 10:27—“My sheep hear My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Because the name is “known only to the one who receives it,” nurture a private, personal walk with Christ through Scripture and obedience. 4. Persevere as an overcomer. • Revelation 3:12 echoes the promise: “I will write on him the name of My God… and My new name.” • Every victory over temptation, discouragement, or compromise anticipates the final unveiling of that name. Daily Practices That Anchor the Promise • Start each morning by reading a verse that affirms your identity in Christ (e.g., Ephesians 1:3-14). • Replace self-defeating thoughts with truths about who God says you are. • Keep a “white-stone” reminder—perhaps an actual small stone on your desk—to prompt gratitude for Christ’s acceptance. • Speak life over fellow believers, affirming the identity God is shaping in them. • Memorize Isaiah 62:2—“You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will designate”—and recite it when feeling overlooked or mislabeled. Hope for the Future • The new name will be unveiled at Jesus’ judgment seat (2 Corinthians 5:10), sealing our eternal identity. • Revelation 21:5—“Behold, I make all things new”—includes us personally; the name is part of that comprehensive renewal. • Until that day, every step of obedience engraves the coming name deeper upon our hearts. Hold fast: the stone is sure, the name is ready, and the One who promises is faithful. |
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