What does being "called by the name of the LORD" signify for believers? What the Phrase Means in Scripture • “Called by the name of the LORD” is a Hebrew idiom that signals covenant relationship. It marks a people who bear His name, belong to Him, and reflect His character. • The phrase appears in passages like Deuteronomy 28:10; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Jeremiah 14:9; Acts 15:17—each time pointing to ownership, protection, and representation. Identity: We Belong to Him • Deuteronomy 28:10 – “Then all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they will fear you.” – God publicly brands Israel as His own people. – For believers today, 1 Peter 2:9 echoes the same idea: “a people for His own possession.” Protection: He Stands with Those Who Bear His Name • Jeremiah 14:9 – “Yet You, O LORD, are in our midst, and we are called by Your name. Do not forsake us!” – The cry assumes that bearing His name secures His presence and defense. • Proverbs 18:10 underscores the refuge tied to His name: “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Mission: We Represent His Character to the World • Isaiah 43:7 – “Everyone called by My name… I have created for My glory.” – Bearing His name means living so His glory is displayed. • Matthew 5:16 connects the dots: our good works shine so others “give glory to your Father in heaven.” Holiness: A Call to Live Set Apart • 2 Timothy 2:19 – “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.” – The name we invoke transforms conduct. • Leviticus 20:26 grounds it: “You shall be holy to Me, for I the LORD am holy, and have set you apart.” Authority: Access to His Power and Promises • Acts 2:21 (quoting Joel 2:32) – “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” – The same name we bear is the name we call upon for salvation, healing, and answered prayer (John 14:13–14). Hope: Confident Future in His Covenant • Revelation 22:4 – “They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.” – The final stamp of belonging guarantees eternal fellowship. Takeaway for Believers Today • Bearing His name is not a label to wear lightly—it is: – Proof of divine ownership – Assurance of protection and presence – Commission to represent His glory – Mandate to pursue holiness – Key to invoke His saving power – Pledge of an everlasting future with Him |
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