Power in the name.

We are witnesses of these things. (Acts 5:32)

The apostles couldn’t keep quiet! The Jewish Sanhedrin had given them strict orders not to teach in Jesus’ name, but they still felt the need to fill Jerusalem with the good news of Jesus’ resurrection. The Holy Spirit was urging them to proclaim Christ and his truth to all that they met, and no one, not even the high priest, could stop them. What’s more, it wasn’t just their public preaching that was causing such a stir. The things they said, the way they related to people, even their very demeanor, revealed the love and power of Christ.

When asked for alms by a man lame from birth, Peter replied, “In the name of Jesus Christ … rise and walk.” And the man did! When asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?” he replied that the man was standing before them because of the “name of Jesus” (Acts 3:6; 4:7, 10). The power of God was flowing out of them so much that they had to explain where it was coming from.

There is great power in the name of Jesus! Consider this: when an ambassador acts in the name of his or her president, things happen. When a spokesperson acts in the name of the head of a corporation, people take notice. Similarly, Scripture tells us that when we act in the name of Jesus, things get done. Divine power flows, and lives are changed. The apostles knew that there was power in that name, and they didn’t hesitate to call upon his name to heal, to evangelize, and to build up the Church.

You shouldn’t hesitate to call on the name of Jesus, either! It is one of the greatest weapons available to us in the spiritual battle. When you find yourself getting upset, you can say, “In the name of Jesus, I cast out anger or resentment.” When you see a friend struggling, you can say (maybe under your breath), “In the name of Jesus, I proclaim peace and healing.” Begin today, and you’ll find more and more opportunities to call on the name of the Lord—and to see the power that flows when you do. 

“Lord, teach me how to echo the psalmist: ‘Some rely on chariots, others on horses, but we on the name of the Lord our God!’ (Psalm 20:8).”

 from wau.org