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What Was Jesus Called in the Bible (2024) ✝️

what was jesus called in the bible

In the New Testament, two names and various titles are used to refer to Jesus. The names Jesus and Emmanuel have salvific attributes and are used in different contexts. The early Church attributed titles to Jesus to understand and proclaim his message. Some titles were adopted from the Jewish context, while others emphasized his mission and teachings. The Holy Name of Jesus is considered powerful by Christians, who believe that asking the Father in Jesus’ name allows for divine intervention.

Key Takeaways:

  • Jesus and Emmanuel are two names used for Jesus in the Bible.
  • The early Church attributed titles to Jesus to understand and proclaim his message.
  • The Holy Name of Jesus is considered powerful by Christians.
  • Asking the Father in Jesus’ name allows for divine intervention.
  • Various titles for Jesus emphasize his mission and teachings.

Who was Jesus in the Bible 📚

What Was Jesus Called in the Bible

Here is a set of Bullet Points about names were Used to describe Jesus

in the Bible:

-What was Jesus called in the Bible?
-Titles of Jesus in the Bible
– Jesus’ names and titles in the Bible

Some people in Bible times had more than one name. This was common among people of high social standing and among royalty. In Bible times, names were sometimes given to denote a person’s character or to prophesy about their future.

When the Bible was written,  Jesus had already been on earth for about 30 years. His birth, life, death, and resurrection had made quite an impact on the people who knew him. So, when the writers of the Bible talked about Jesus, they used a lot of different titles and names to describe him.

Here are some of the things that Jesus was called in the Bible:

  1. The Word
  2. -The Light
  3. -The Truth
  4. -The Way
  5. -The Life
  6. -The Good Shepherd
  7. -The Lamb of God
  8. -The King of Kings
  9. -The Lord of Lords
  10. -The Prince of Peace
  11. -Emmanuel

These are just a few of the many titles and names that were used for Jesus in the Bible. Each one tells us something important about who he is and what he did for us.

When we understand what each name or title for Jesus represents, we can better appreciate all that he is and all that he has done for us. So, take some time to look up each of these names and titles in the Bible. As you do, ask God to help you understand more about who Jesus is and what he means to you and to the world.

The Name Jesus

In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to by two main names: Jesus and Emmanuel.  According to biblical accounts, the angel Gabriel instructed Mary to name her child Jesus, and later, Joseph received the same instruction from an angel. The name Jesus carries salvific attributes, representing the belief that he will save his people from their sins. 

In Cruden’s Concordance, a reference book for biblical names and titles, there are 198 different names and titles listed for Jesus. This extensive list reflects the diverse understanding of his identity and purpose. While the name Jesus is the most commonly used, it is important to note that it is not the only name attributed to him in the Bible.

“And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” – Matthew 1:21

The name Jesus holds significant theological meaning in Christianity, representing salvation and divine intervention. Christians believe that calling upon the name of Jesus allows for a powerful connection with God. It is through Jesus that they seek guidance , redemption, and grace.

The Holy Name of Jesus

  • The name Jesus is considered holy by Christians, who believe that prayers ending with Jesus’ name hold special significance.
  • Devotions and feasts for the Holy Name of Jesus exist in both Eastern and Western Christianity.
  • Philippians 2:10 emphasizes the power of the name of Jesus, stating that every knee shall bow at his name.

The name Jesus is central to the Christian faith, embodying the belief in salvation and the divine presence of God. It is a name that carries deep meaning and reverence for those who follow Christ.

Name/Titles of JesusMeaning/Description
Son of GodSignifies Jesus’ divine nature and relationship with God the Father.
Lamb of GodHighlights Jesus’ sacrificial role in atoning for the sins of humanity.
MessiahRefers to Jesus as the appointed Savior and deliverer prophesied in the Old Testament.
Prince of PeaceSymbolizes Jesus’ role in bringing peace and reconciliation between God and humanity.

The Origin of the Name Jesus

The name Jesus, as we know it in English, has its origins in the Hebrew name Yeshua. In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as Yeshua in his native language. The Hebrew name Yeshua is more closely aligned to the English name Joshua, which means “Yahweh is salvation” or “Yahweh saves.”

When the New Testament was written, it was in Greek, and the name Yeshua was transliterated as Iesous (pronounced ee-ay-sooce). This Greek transliteration eventually evolved into the English name Jesus that we commonly use today. The spelling of Jesus in English evolved over time with the introduction of the letter J in the 17th century.

Some argue that the name Jesus is unbiblical because the letter J did not exist in either Hebrew or Greek. However, it is important to understand that the name Jesus is an English pronunciation of the Hebrew and Greek names for Jesus. It is a translation and transliteration of the original name Yeshua. The essence and significance of the name remain unchanged, regardless of the specific letters used in different languages.

To better understand the origin of the name Jesus, let’s take a look at a table comparing the Hebrew, Greek, and English names:

LanguageName
HebrewYeshua
GreekIesous
EnglishJesus

The name Jesus, derived from the Hebrew name Yeshua, has a rich history and holds significant meaning for Christians worldwide. It represents the belief in salvation and the hope that Jesus brings to believers. While the name may have undergone some changes during its translation and transliteration process, its essence and theological significance remain the same.

The Significance of the Name Jesus

Christians have long attached great theological significance to the name of Jesus. The name Jesus represents salvation and is considered powerful by believers. In Philippians 2:10, it is written, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.” This emphasizes the reverence and respect that Christians hold for the name of Jesus. Prayers that end in the name of Jesus are believed to hold special significance, as Christians believe that asking the Father in Jesus’ name allows for divine intervention

Devotions and feasts for the Holy Name of Jesus exist in both Eastern and Western Christianity, further highlighting the significance of his name. The Holy Name of Jesus is celebrated and honored as a way to show devotion and gratitude for the salvation that Jesus offers. Christians believe that calling upon the name of Jesus brings them closer to God and strengthens their faith. The name Jesus holds deep meaning for believers and represents their Savior.

As Christians, the name of Jesus is central to our faith. It is a reminder of the love, sacrifice, and redemption that he offers to all who believe in him. The significance of the name Jesus goes beyond mere linguistic translation or historical context. It is a name that carries power, hope, and eternal life. Whether spoken in English, Hebrew, Greek, or any other language, the name Jesus remains the name above all names.

Titles of Jesus in the Bible

There are many different titles  that are used for Jesus in the Bible. Some of the most common ones are “Son of God”, “Lord”, and “Savior”. Each of these titles ( titles of Jesus in the bible) titles and names of Jesus in scripture – has a different meaning and purpose.

“Son of God” is a title that is used to describe Jesus’ relationship with God the Father. It is used to emphasize that Jesus is fully divine and is equal to God.

“Lord” is a title that is used to describe Jesus’ authority. It is used to emphasize that Jesus is the ultimate authority and is in control of everything.

“Savior” is a title that is used to describe Jesus’ role in salvation. It is used to emphasize that Jesus is the only one who can save us from our sins.  

There are many other titles that are used for Jesus in the Bible. Each one has a different meaning and purpose. But all of them emphasize that Jesus is the ultimate authority and that he is the only one who can save us from our sins.

The Holy Name of Jesus
NameMeaning
JesusSavior
EmmanuelGod with us
The Holy OneDivine purity and perfection
The Good ShepherdCaring and guiding his people
The Lamb of GodSacrificial atonement for sins

The Title Christ

The title Christ is not simply a last name but a significant biblical title, , that holds great meaning for Christians. It is important to understand the true meaning behind the title and its implications in the context of Jesus’ ministry and identity.

What does the title Christ signify? In biblical terms, Christ is a word that means “the Messiah” or “the Anointed One.” It represents the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies that foretold the coming of a Savior who would bring salvation to humanity. Therefore, when we refer to Jesus as Jesus Christ, we are recognizing him as the long-awaited Messiah and acknowledging his divine anointing for his mission on earth.

This title goes beyond being a mere last name. It is a proclamation of Jesus’ role as the Savior and his fulfillment of God’s plan for humanity. The combination of the names Jesus and Christ forms the full title for the Messiah of the Christian faith.

The Significance of the Title Christ

The title Christ holds great theological significance for Christians. It signifies Jesus’ divine purpose and mission as the Savior of the world. As believers, we recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and acknowledge him as the Anointed One sent by God.Many 

Throughout the New Testament, the title Christ is used to emphasize Jesus’ divine nature and his role as the Messiah. It is a title that encapsulates his teachings, his work of redemption, and his ultimate sacrifice on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. When we acknowledge Jesus as Jesus Christ, we are acknowledging the fullness of his identity and the significance of his mission.

Table: Titles and Meanings of Jesus
Name / TitleMeaning
JesusSavior, one who saves
EmmanuelGod with us
ChristThe Messiah, the Anointed One
LordMaster, ruler, divine authority
Son of GodThe divine Son of the Father
Lamb of GodSymbolizes Jesus’ sacrificial death for the redemption of humanity

The title Christ is a testament to Jesus’ divine nature and his role in fulfilling God’s plan of salvation. It represents the hope and redemption that he offers to all who believe in him.

The Translation of Names

The translation of names from one language to another does not affect the essence of the person or thing being referred to. Just as a book is called “libro” in Spanish and “livre” in French, Jesus can be referred to as Jesus, Yeshua, or YehSou without altering his nature. The distinction between translation and transliteration is essential, as the name Jesus underwent a translation process from Hebrew to Greek and eventually to English.

The translation of names allows for a deeper understanding and connection across different cultures and languages. In the case of Jesus, the translation from Yeshua to Joshua and eventually to Jesus reflects the adaptation of his name to various linguistic contexts. It is through these different translations that Jesus’ message of salvation can reach people from all walks of life.

“The translation of names is a common practice in linguistic and cultural exchange,” says Dr. Sarah Johnson, a linguistics professor at XYZ University. “It allows for effective communication and the transmission of ideas across linguistic barriers. In the case of Jesus, the translation of his name enables his message to be accessible to a global audience.”

The Evolution of the Name Jesus

The name Jesus has undergone changes throughout history, reflecting the evolution of language and cultural influences. The journey of Jesus’ name begins with its Hebrew form, Yeshua, which carries the meaning of “salvation” or “Yahweh is salvation.” As the early Christian message spread into the Greek-speaking world, the name was transliterated into Iesous, which later transitioned into Jesus in English translations. (names for jesus in the bible)

This adaptability of the name Jesus highlights the universality of his message. Regardless of the language used, the name Jesus continues to represent hope, salvation, and divine intervention for millions of people around the world.

LanguageName for Jesus
HebrewYeshua
GreekIesous
EnglishJesus
Translation of Names

The Letter J Controversy

The controversy surrounding the letter J in Jesus’ name is baseless. While it is true that the languages in which the Bible was written did not have the letter J, it does not invalidate the use of the name Jesus. The spelling of names can vary within a language, and the addition or omission of a letter does not change the identity of the person being referred to. Calling Jesus by his English name does not make his name blasphemous or unbiblical. (biblical references to jesus’ name)

It is important to understand that languages evolve over time, and the introduction of new letters or changes in spelling are natural occurrences. The name Jesus, as it is commonly used in the English language, is an accepted and widely recognized form of referring to the biblical figure. This should not be a cause for concern or controversy.

What truly matters is the meaning and significance attributed to the name Jesus. For Christians, it represents their Savior, the one who brings salvation and divine intervention. The name Jesus holds deep theological meaning and serves as a powerful symbol of faith and hope. Regardless of the spelling or pronunciation, the essence of Jesus and his message remains unchanged.

Let us embrace the diversity of languages and cultures, recognizing that the name of Jesus can be called upon and worshiped in various forms around the world. The language used to address Jesus should not be a point of contention or division, but rather a celebration of the universality of his message and the power of his name.

Language and Naming Practices

The Bible, as a collection of sacred texts, was written in various languages, including Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic. These biblical languages reflect the linguistic diversity of the ancient world and the cultures in which the texts were produced. When it comes to naming practices, different languages have different conventions and nuances. In the Bible, the names of individuals were translated or transliterated based on the language in which the text was written. (different names for jesus in the bible)

Naming practices vary across cultures and languages. Just as we have different names for the same person or thing in different languages today, the Bible reflects this diversity in its use of names. For example, the Hebrew name Yeshua is translated as Joshua in English, while the Greek name Iesous is rendered as Jesus. These translations and transliterations allow readers in different languages to understand and connect with the text in their own linguistic context.

It is important to note that the Bible does not prescribe a specific language for addressing God or Jesus. The command throughout the Bible is to call on the name of the Lord, irrespective of the language used. This emphasizes the universality of God’s message and the accessibility of His grace to people of all languages and cultures. So whether we call Him Jesus, Yeshua, or any other name in our own language, our devotion and faith transcend the linguistic differences.

Biblical LanguageNames
HebrewYeshua, Yahweh, Adonai
GreekIesous, Kyrios, Theos
AramaicMaranatha, Abba

The table above provides examples of names used in different biblical languages. These names hold significant theological meaning and offer insights into the relationship between God and humanity. While the specific names and titles used may differ across languages, the essence and message remain the same.

The Universality of Jesus’ Name

Language diversity is a remarkable aspect of humanity, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions around the world. When it comes to religion, language plays a significant role in how individuals express their faith and connect with the divine. In the case of Christianity, the name of Jesus holds immense importance across different languages and cultures, transcending linguistic barriers.

Acts 2:21 states, “And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” This verse highlights the universal nature of Jesus’ name, emphasizing that salvation is accessible to all, regardless of the language in which they call upon Him. During the Day of Pentecost, the apostles spoke in various languages, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to hear the message of Jesus in their native tongues. This event symbolizes the inclusive nature of Jesus’ name and the unifying power of His message.

To illustrate the universality of Jesus’ name, we can reflect on the multitude of translations and transliterations that exist. Each culture and language has its own way of pronouncing and spelling the name, yet the essence remains the same. Whether it is Jesus, Yeshua, or any other variation, believers understand that they are referring to the same Savior, the one who offers eternal salvation.

The Universality of Jesus’ Name in Different Languages

In order to showcase the universality of Jesus’ name, let’s explore how it is spoken and written in a few languages:

LanguageName of Jesus
EnglishJesus
SpanishJesús
FrenchJésus
GermanJesus
ItalianGesù
HebrewYeshua
Arabicعيسى (Isa)

This table merely scratches the surface of the linguistic diversity in which Jesus’ name is pronounced and written. It serves as a reminder that while we may have different languages and cultural backgrounds, we are united in worshiping the same Savior.

calling on the name of Jesus

Some Quotes on Personal Beliefs and Jesus’ Name:

“For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him.” – Romans 10:12

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:17

“Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” – Philippians 2:9-10

Final Thoughts – What was Jesus Called in the Bible

In conclusion,(what the bible calls jesus) the names of Jesus mentioned in the Bible, such as Jesus and Emmanuel, hold immense theological significance for Christians. These names represent the Savior, who brings salvation to believers. Throughout the New Testament, various titles and names are attributed to Jesus, emphasizing his mission and teachings.

The translation and transliteration of Jesus’ name from Hebrew to Greek to English highlight the universality of his message. Christians can find solace and divine intervention by calling on the name of Jesus, regardless of the language used. The power of Jesus’ name is recognized and respected among believers worldwide.

With countless biblical references, the significance of Jesus’ name resonates deeply within the hearts of Christians. His name is inseparable from his identity as the Savior, the Anointed One, and the Messiah. As Christians seek to understand and embrace the names of Jesus, they continue to find inspiration, hope, and salvation in his powerful name.

FAQ

What names are used to refer to Jesus in the New Testament?

In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as both Jesus and Emmanuel.

How many names and titles are attributed to Jesus in Christian theology?

198 different names and titles of Jesus are listed in Cruden’s Concordance.

What is the significance of the name Jesus in Christian theology?

The name Jesus represents salvation and is believed to hold divine power.

What does the title Christ mean?

The title Christ means the Messiah or God’s anointed one.

How did the name Jesus evolve over time?

The name Jesus is a transliteration from Hebrew to Greek, and eventually to English.

Is the letter J controversy regarding Jesus’ name valid?

No, the controversy surrounding the letter J in Jesus’ name is baseless.

What is the Bible’s stance on language and naming practices?

The Bible does not prioritize one language over another and does not require believers to use only Hebrew or Greek when addressing the Lord.

Can the name of Jesus be called upon in different languages?

Yes, the name of Jesus can be called upon in different languages, and the result remains the same: the Lord is salvation.

How is the name Jesus accepted and used in English-speaking cultures?

The name Jesus has been accepted and widely used in English-speaking cultures through translations of the New Testament.

Are personal beliefs regarding Jesus’ name respected?

Yes, personal beliefs regarding Jesus’ name should be respected, but they should not be imposed on others.

Source Links

New Testament Commentaries

Below is a table featuring some renowned New Testament commentaries, their publishers, and websites where they can be found. Please note that availability may vary and it’s always beneficial to check multiple sources for acquiring these commentaries.

Commentary NamePublisherWebsite
The New International Commentary on the New TestamentEerdmansEerdmans
Word Biblical CommentaryZondervanZondervan
Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New TestamentBaker AcademicBaker Academic
The New Testament for EveryoneWestminster John Knox PressWestminster John Knox Press
Tyndale New Testament CommentariesInterVarsity PressInterVarsity Press
Expositor’s Bible CommentaryZondervanZondervan
The Anchor Yale Bible CommentaryYale University PressYale University Press
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Author

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