Topical Encyclopedia
In the Christian tradition, the term "saints" refers to individuals who have been set apart for a holy purpose, often recognized for their exemplary faith and devotion to God. The Bible provides various titles and names for these holy people, reflecting their roles, characteristics, and the divine relationship they maintain with God. These titles and names are not only descriptive but also serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for believers.
1.
Saints (Hagioi): The most common term used in the New Testament to refer to holy people is "saints" (Greek: hagioi), meaning "holy ones" or "set apart." This term emphasizes the sanctification and consecration of believers. In
Ephesians 1:1, Paul addresses the "saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus," highlighting their distinct status as God's people.
2.
Beloved: This title underscores the deep love and affection God has for His people. In
Romans 1:7, Paul writes, "To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints," indicating that the saints are cherished by God and called to a holy life.
3.
Elect (Chosen): The term "elect" or "chosen" signifies those whom God has selected for a special purpose. In
Colossians 3:12, believers are referred to as "God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved," emphasizing their divine selection and calling.
4.
Faithful: This title is often used to describe those who remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to God. In
Revelation 17:14, the saints are described as "called, chosen, and faithful," highlighting their loyalty and perseverance.
5.
Children of God: This familial title reflects the intimate relationship between believers and God. In 1
John 3:1, it is written, "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" This designation emphasizes the saints' identity as members of God's family.
6.
Priests: In the New Testament, believers are often referred to as a "royal priesthood" (
1 Peter 2:9), indicating their role in offering spiritual sacrifices and interceding for others. This title underscores the saints' responsibility to live lives of holiness and service.
7.
Disciples: While primarily used to describe the followers of Jesus during His earthly ministry, the term "disciples" extends to all who adhere to His teachings. In
Acts 11:26, the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch, signifying their commitment to Christ's teachings and mission.
8.
Witnesses: Saints are often called to be witnesses of God's truth and grace. In
Acts 1:8, Jesus tells His followers, "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This title emphasizes the saints' role in spreading the Gospel.
9.
Overcomers: This title is given to those who triumph over sin and adversity through faith in Christ. In
Revelation 2:7, it is promised, "To the one who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." This designation highlights the victory and reward awaiting the faithful.
10.
Servants of God: This title reflects the saints' dedication to serving God and others. In
Romans 6:22, believers are described as "slaves of God," indicating their commitment to righteousness and holy living.
These titles and names collectively portray the multifaceted identity and mission of the saints. They serve as a reminder of the high calling and privilege of being set apart for God's purposes, encouraging believers to live lives worthy of their divine calling.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Deuteronomy 26:19And to make you high above all nations which he has made, in praise, and in name, and in honor; and that you may be an holy people to the LORD your God, as he has spoken.
Torrey's Topical TextbookIsaiah 62:12
And they shall call them, The holy people, The redeemed of the LORD: and you shall be called, Sought out, A city not forsaken.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
That Worthy Name.
... of that worthy Name are known to God's Saints; but there ... of some of the familiar
titles and names of that ... How these titles of our blessed Lord, what He is and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/that worthy name.htm
Letter xxii. St. Ambrose in a Letter to his Sister Gives an ...
... eyes were shut, so long as the bodies of the saints lay hidden. ... Old men now repeat
that they once heard the names of these martyrs and read their titles. ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/letter xxii st ambrose in.htm
"He is the Rock, his Work is Perfect. For all his Ways are ...
... It was enough of old with the saints, "It is the Lord, let him do ... word Jehovah holds
forth more to angels than all the inculcated names and titles of God ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon iii he is the.htm
The People on the Earth: Chapters 2-3
... him (the Beast) to make war with the saints and to ... Note how the titles of Christ
in verse 8 ("I am ... 4. Nevertheless thou hast a few names [119] in Sardis] These ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the people on the earth .htm
The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints
... everything you like; but know that those titles will not ... thick jungle of India shall
see the saints of God ... t expect kings to put down their names for trifles. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the kingly priesthood of the.htm
The Beloved Pastor's Plea for Unity
... the apostle especially expresses his fellowship with the saints in Rome ... that fellowship
he calls them by endearing names, by the highest titles which they ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 39 1893/the beloved pastors plea for.htm
The Wicked Raised, and Satan Loosed
... Their names, "Gog and Magog,""those applied to the ... of Israel, (Ezek.38:38),"are
appropriate titles to designate ... are permitted to harm the saints, fire from ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the wicked raised and satan.htm
Reading the Law with Tears and Joy
... of the law are given in the two titles by which ... It is somewhat singular that thirteen
names are enumerated as ... forgotten by two kinds of men"saints who have ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/reading the law with tears.htm
Psalm LXXXIII.
... of the congregation of God's people in the titles of many ... nation or people of God,
or His saints, who know ... The meaning of these names is as follows: Madian is ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxxxiii.htm
Motives to the Oversight of the Flock
... but the appendage of the work Is it names and honor ... and his Church, and never think
of titles and reputation ... Have we the conduct of those saints that shall live ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 3 motives to.htm
Resources
What are the different names and titles of the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the names and titles of the Holy Spirit? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the different names and titles of Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus