What does "holy is His name" reveal about God's character and nature? Setting the Scene Luke 1:49: “For the Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is His name.” God’s Holiness: Set Apart and Perfect • “Holy” translates the Hebrew/Greek idea of being utterly separate, distinct, and morally flawless. • God is not merely a better version of creation; He is in a class by Himself (Exodus 15:11). • Holiness defines every attribute He possesses—His love is holy, His justice holy, His power holy. Unchanging Moral Purity • Psalm 99:3 – “Let them praise Your great and awesome name—He is holy.” • Isaiah 6:3 – “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory.” • God’s standards never shift with culture; His purity is eternal and immutable (James 1:17). Reverence Demanded by His Name • In Scripture, a “name” carries the essence and reputation of the person (Exodus 3:14). • To declare “holy is His name” is to acknowledge that God’s very identity is deserving of awe and set apart from common use (Leviticus 19:2). • Misusing His name profanes His holiness (Exodus 20:7). Power and Holiness Together • Luke 1:49 links God’s mighty deeds with His holy name—His power flows from a holy heart. • He cannot act unjustly or capriciously; every work He performs is consistent with perfect righteousness (Psalm 145:17). Holiness as the Pattern for Believers • 1 Peter 1:15-16 quotes Leviticus: “Be holy, because I am holy.” • God’s holiness is not only admired—it becomes the moral blueprint for His people. • Through Christ’s redemption and the Spirit’s indwelling, believers are enabled to reflect His character (Ephesians 4:24). Holiness Displayed in Redemption • At the cross, righteousness and mercy meet (Psalm 85:10). God punishes sin while providing atonement, maintaining perfect holiness. • Revelation 5:9-10 shows worship erupting because the Lamb’s sacrifice upholds God’s holy justice and extends grace. Eternal Worship of His Holy Name • Revelation 4:8 – “Day and night they never stop saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty…’” • God’s holiness will be the anthem of heaven forever, securing unending praise from angels and redeemed humanity alike. Living in Light of His Holy Name • Cultivate reverence: guard speech, worship, and lifestyle to honor His name (Psalm 34:3). • Pursue purity: holiness is not optional but essential for fellowship with Him (Hebrews 12:14). • Rely on grace: only by Christ’s righteousness can we approach the Holy One with confidence (Hebrews 10:19-22). |
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