Teacher: Rev. R. Woods-Barrant, Pastor
The names of God are fascinating! The names of God comfort us. They are reassuring. They give us hope. They declare God's glory. They are POWERFUL! The Bible uses different names of God to convey specific, personal meaning and identity; there’s nothing so powerful as the name of our Lord God. The Bible says the name of the Lord is like a strong tower; the righteous can run to it and be saved. In a world that often feels chaotic and fear-filled, God’s name is the one to hold close. God is fully trustworthy, always powerful, forever loving, and constantly present with us. Though the names that God is known by may be different, they all explain one thing: God’s character, God’s identity. God’s presence is an unwavering banner in a world that is constantly bowing down to changing trends, transient movements, and shifting expectations. God and God’s names, and what they stand for, have particular relevance in the midst of our many pandemics when people need to be made aware that there is life beyond what they know.
Scripture Foundation: I John 4:4
Names of God: Each Person will say why each name of God is meaningful to them
1) Yahweh - “The Lord” or “God” Genesis 2:4
2) Adonai - “Lord God,” “Lord,” “Master” Exodus 34:23
3) Elohim - “Father God,” “God the Creator” Genesis 1:1
4) Abba - “Father” Mark 14:36
5) Jehovah Jireh - “The Lord will provide” Genesis 22:14
6) Jehovah Rapha - “The God who heals” Psalm 147:3
7) Jehovah Nissi - “The Lord is my banner” Exodus 17:15
8) Jehovah Shalom - “The Lord is peace” Judges 6:24
9) Quanna - “Jealous” Exodus 34:14
10) El Shaddai - “God Almighty” Revelation 1:8 and Genesis 17:1
Questions:
1. There are other names for God, can anyone think of another that you find meaningful?
2. Explain why it is not a distraction to have multiple names for God?