So often we use the name of Jesus. We say it at the end of our prayers. Some make decrees and proclamations based on their desires, claiming to prophecy in Jesus’ name. We believe there is profound power to be had by simply stamping His name to our every wish, desire and prayer. But is there? I came on this fascinating reading just the other day.
Taken from The Complete Works of EM Bounds, pp 338-339
“Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, I will give,” says Christ, and the Father will give. Both the Father and Son are pledged to give the very things for which we ask. But the condition is “in His name”. This does not mean that His name is talismanic, to give value by magic. It does not mean that His name in beautiful settings of pearl will give value to prayer. It is not that His name perfumed with sentiment and larded in and closing up our prayers and doings will do the deed. How fearful the statement” “Many will say unto me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you. Depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” How blasting the doom of these great workers and doers who claim to work in His name! (Scripture references: Matthew 21:22, Luke 11:9, John 14:14; Matthew 7:22-23)
It means far more than sentiment, verbiage, and nomenclature. It means to stand in His stead, to bear His nature, to stand for all for which He stood, for righteousness, truth, holiness and zeal. It means to be one with God as He was, one in spirit, in will and in purpose. It means that our praying is singly and solely for God’s glory through His Son. It means that we abide in Him, that Christ prays through us, lives in us and shines out of us that we pray by the Holy Spirit according to the will of God.
The words of EM Bounds point us should make us consider that we, as believers have a great responsibility to carry, maybe far greater than many of us have been taught or have realized in the true meaning behind the use of the name of Jesus.
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