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WHAT’S IN A NAME? Luke 1:57-66 You shall call his name John. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many…to the Lord their God. He will go…to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. Zechariah confirmed this, saying, “His name is John.” (Luke 1:13,15-17,63) It is clear in the Scriptures that “John” was more than a mere name, but also a purpose. God revealed His purpose for John’s life (briefly summarized above) to his father, Zechariah. When Zechariah decided to lay aside the family tradition and name his son “John”, in obedience to God, he was also committing to raise him to know God, and be who God had created him to be—one who will turn many people to God. It seemed that everybody in the family had expectations for this little baby, but, although he came against the will and desires of all around him, Zechariah declared his name to be John—and in so doing, he acknowledged the very purpose for his life. I’m sure Zechariah had many plans for his son’s life as well. We don’t really know what those plans were, but we do know that after he met the angel in the temple, God’s plan was established. However, Zechariah doubted God at first because, being old, he didn’t believe that it was possible for God to give him a son. Since Elizabeth was also barren, what was impossible in their hands also seemed impossible for God. Because of this unbelief, Zechariah was made mute. When he acted in obedience, laying aside all of his own plans, and named his son “John”, we can see that belief and trust in God’s ways and His sovereign plans were finally planted solidly in Zechariah's heart—finally, room for God. Zechariah was obedient, and immediately his mouth was opened with praise for God. He had been mute because of his unbelief. When he showed his belief in God’s Word, by being obedient, he could then see the fulfillment of God’s promises, and only then could his mouth be filled with praise to God. God’s name is glorified when His people are obedient and live for the purpose for which they were called. A name is more than just a label. A name determines who you are…what you’re about…the purpose of your life…a higher calling. God calls us all to a life of obedience to His Word. There is no room for my plans—only God’s plans. If I call myself a Christian, it cannot only be a label that I wear as I continue to live as I always have, but it must become the very reason for life. If you have kids, resolve yourself to be able to speak (and act) with as much determination as Zechariah said, “His name is John.” Say with him, “He will turn many…to the Lord. He will make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” Take it for yourself, too. Don’t allow “Christian” to be just a label. If you take the name of Christ, be prepared to take on the life and purpose of Christ as well. His purpose was to do the will of the Father. ~ Joel Warren
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