“For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow – of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth – and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11 (HCSB)
I recently watched a documentary on Alexander the Great. Although he is somewhat controversial, his prowess as a military leader goes undisputed. After assuming a prominent role in his mid-twenties, Alexander proceeded to march his army 12,000 miles in 12 years’ time and conquer lands from Egypt to Palestine. It is said Alexander the Great wept when there were no more lands to conquer. A few days ago, I heard a new account concerning him. As the story goes…Alexander the Great learned of a cowardly foot soldier in his army who was his namesake. The general summoned the cowardly foot soldier and asked two questions.
Alexander the Great: “Is your name Alexander?”
Foot soldier: “Yes, General. My name is Alexander”
Alexander the Great: “Were you named after me?”
Foot soldier: “Yes, I am named after you.”
Alexander the Great: “Then be brave or change your name.”
Boom. Alexander fancied himself to be a god…as a narcissist, he believed his own name and reputation to be of profound importance.
In contrast, two men in the Old Testament were given a military mission. Joshua and Caleb, along with ten others, were instructed to spy and report on the land of Canaan. God had promised this land to the Israelites. Only Joshua and Caleb returned from their mission with faith in the Living God. These two men knew their faith and any fear could be remedied by the Name Above All Names.
“Choose this day whom you will serve. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
Bigger Boom.
Shakespeare once famously penned the phrase, “What’s in a name?” Well, it all depends which name is being referenced. The names players and fans wear on the back of athletic jerseys, names that are famous, noteworthy or newsworthy…even the most positive role-models among us…pale in comparison to the one and only Name worthy of our worship.
“For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow – of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth – and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11 (HCSB)
Obviously, God gets the “Biggest Boom” of all!
Today, if you do not know Jesus Christ as the Name Above All Names…please reach out to any member of the Sweet Monday staff or any board member. We would be honored to share some very good news with you!