One Name = Power

Reflection: It’s unlikely that we clearly comprehend the power and authority we carry when we invoke the name of Jesus by reflecting his heart and acting according to his will. Starting at the end of today’s reading, Paul explains that because of the unconditional love and obedience Jesus showed his Father, everything (that’s everything!) has been placed ‘under his feet’ – below him.

And this is for us the church, the people of God who have been saved through faith in his death on the cross and believe in his resurrection. Jesus rules for us. The world is ‘peripheral’ to the church, not the other way around, as The Message translation paraphrases these verses. Because Jesus is at the centre of all things, so are we.

Paul traces a direct link from the power of Jesus’ resurrection to the power of his name, the One Name. That power has placed Jesus above rule, authority, power and dominion. Turning to The Message again, we see that Jesus is ‘in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule.’ (Eph 1:20-23 MSG).

And we who have surrendered everything to Jesus, now carry the name of Jesus in all we do. We are the temple of his Spirit and together his literal body, speaking and acting in his name in our world and time. This is a holy and fearsome calling, which should be met with awe, reverence, and deep humility. But also with boldness, generosity, and passion for grace and truth.

One Name today: Thank you for joining Glow Church Gold Coast in this one-week devotion unwrapping the wonder, the beauty, and the glory of One Name – Jesus. For more resources and plans, find us on YouVersion or visit glowchurch.com