The phrase "Holy and Awesome Name" refers to the reverence and majesty attributed to the name of God in the Bible. This concept underscores the sanctity and awe-inspiring nature of God's character and His divine attributes as revealed through His name. The Bible emphasizes the importance of God's name as a reflection of His holiness, power, and authority.

Biblical References

One of the key verses that highlight this concept is found in Psalm 111:9: "He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; holy and awesome is His name." . This verse encapsulates the idea that God's name is intrinsically linked to His redemptive acts and eternal covenant with His people. The holiness of God's name signifies His purity, righteousness, and separateness from sin, while its awesomeness evokes a sense of wonder and reverence.

Theological Significance

In the biblical context, a name is more than a mere label; it represents the essence and character of the individual. Thus, God's name is a revelation of His divine nature. The holiness of God's name is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing His moral perfection and the call for His people to reflect His holiness in their lives. Leviticus 19:2 states, "Speak to the whole congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’" . This call to holiness is rooted in the character of God Himself.

The awesomeness of God's name is also a testament to His power and majesty. In Deuteronomy 10:17, it is written, "For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, mighty, and awesome God, showing no partiality and accepting no bribe." . This passage highlights God's supreme authority and the reverence due to Him.

Worship and Reverence

The recognition of God's holy and awesome name is central to worship. Believers are called to honor and revere God's name in their prayers, praises, and daily conduct. The Lord's Prayer, as taught by Jesus, begins with the petition, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name." (Matthew 6:9). This reflects the priority of acknowledging the sanctity of God's name in the life of a believer.

Furthermore, the Third Commandment, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain," (Exodus 20:7) underscores the importance of treating God's name with the utmost respect and reverence. This commandment serves as a reminder of the sacredness of God's name and the responsibility of His people to uphold its honor.

Implications for Believers

For believers, the holiness and awesomeness of God's name serve as a call to live lives that reflect His character. It is an invitation to pursue holiness, to stand in awe of God's majesty, and to proclaim His greatness to the world. The reverence for God's name is not merely an abstract concept but a guiding principle that shapes the believer's relationship with God and others.

In summary, the "Holy and Awesome Name" of God is a profound biblical theme that encapsulates His divine nature, His redemptive work, and the reverence due to Him. It calls believers to a life of worship, holiness, and awe in response to the revelation of who God is.