What's in a Name?Sample

The power of Jesus’ name

During his earthly ministry, Jesus healed many people. He had the divine power to do so. He told a paralyzed man: “Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” And he did. When Lazarus had died and was buried, Jesus “cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out.’” And he did. Jesus commanded the wind and the sea “Peace! Be still!”. And the wind ceased.

When Jesus had returned to his Father in heaven and had sent the Holy Spirit upon his disciples, they preached the good news about Jesus’ salvation work. Their words were supported by “many wonders and signs” (Acts 2:43). These signs showed that although Jesus was no longer physically present, He was alive and his power had not decreased.

The disciples did not have this supernatural power of their own. They could only heal people in the name of Jesus. As the apostle Peter says: “his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong” (Acts 3:16). This is exactly what Jesus had told them in John 15:5, “Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

Do you “abide in Jesus”?