The Exclusive Name Of Jesus Acts 4:10-12 Series

The Exclusive Name of Jesus

Introduction:

Today, we gather to explore the transformative power of the name of Jesus, as revealed to us in Acts 4:10-12. Let us delve into this passage to understand the significance of Jesus' name and its impact on our lives.

Acts 4:10-12 (NLT): "Let me clearly state to all of you and to all the people of Israel that he was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead. For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, 'The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.' There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."

In these verses, Peter boldly proclaims the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ. He emphasises that it was by the name of Jesus that a man was healed, highlighting the authority and power vested in His name. Peter then quotes from Psalm 118:22, referring to Jesus as the cornerstone—the foundational stone upon which our faith rests.

Psalm 118:22 (NLT):

"The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone."

In this verse, we witness the profound truth that what may be discarded by humans can be exalted by God. The rejected stone symbolises Jesus Christ, who was initially rejected by many, yet God elevated Him to the position of utmost importance—the cornerstone. This cornerstone, Jesus, is essential for the building of our faith and the foundation of our salvation.

Point 1: The Power of Jesus' Name

The name of Jesus holds unparalleled power and authority. It is not merely a label but a representation of His character, His nature, and His saving work. As believers, we have access to this power when we invoke the name of Jesus in faith.

Philippians 2:9-11 (NLT): "Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

In these verses, we are reminded of the exaltation of Jesus Christ by God the Father. Jesus' obedience, even to the point of death, led to His elevation to the highest position of honor. His name is supreme, and one day, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess His lordship. This passage underscores the unparalleled authority and majesty of Jesus Christ.

Point 2: The Exclusivity of Salvation

Peter unequivocally declares that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ. In a world of competing ideologies and religions, this truth stands as a beacon of hope. Salvation is not achieved through human effort or merit but is a gift freely offered through faith in Jesus alone.

John 14:6 (NLT): "Jesus told him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.'"

In this verse, Jesus unequivocally declares His exclusivity as the path to God the Father. He is not merely a way but the way—the only way to reconciliation with God. His statement highlights the necessity of a personal relationship with Him for eternal salvation. Jesus is the embodiment of truth and the source of life, offering us access to the Father through His sacrificial death and resurrection.

Point 3: The Call to Action

As recipients of God's grace and salvation through Jesus Christ, we are called to share this message of hope with others. We must proclaim the name of Jesus boldly and unashamedly, knowing that it is the only name by which people can be saved. Let us live lives that reflect the transformative power of Jesus' name and invite others to experience His love and grace.

Romans 10:13-15 (NLT): "For 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.' But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, 'How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!'"

These verses emphasise the importance of proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ for salvation. Belief in Jesus is a prerequisite for calling on His name for salvation. However, people can only believe in Jesus if they have heard about Him. Therefore, it is imperative for believers to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others. Those who proclaim the gospel are likened to messengers bearing beautiful feet, bringing hope and salvation to those who hear and believe.