Photo by Kelly Sikkema
Even among many Christians around the world, the many names of God are only understood on the surface level. Most people treat them as synonymous. A great number associate them with a particular denomination (such as Jehovah), or just some think it is a fancy, archaic term that was the norm (as in some branches of Judaism).
However, those who have explored many Christian teachings on Jehovah-El Elyon’s identity will know these names were not chosen lightly! Such a deep dive to Christian teachings has been undertaken by countless theologians, scholars, and philosophers.
Does this mean that the average Christian may seem unqualified to understand such things? The good news is that the answer is no! On the other hand, it will require a long, spiritual journey (and no small number of hours reflecting on the Bible).
To explore the identity of God Most High, one must first humbly accept that there will be no true end to such a study. God is infinite, omnipotent, and transcendent. There is only so much one can learn in a finite life (which is why it is so important to also be ready for the next).
Once that is done, the next thing to do is simply choose among the many paths to better understanding.
Getting Ready for a Journey to Know God
Photo by Ben White
Of course, maybe you find it overwhelming to see many ways to know God and tackle the numerous faith traditions about him. Here are a few things that can help break it all down. And more importantly, avoid putting too much on yourself and learn to have faith that Jehovah is still with you at every step.
Framework
It might sound challenging, but understanding Jehovah in Christian theology isn’t that hard as far as the basics are concerned. You just need a framework to serve as your proverbial compass. It can be the theology of the church you were baptized in or a bigger, mainline theology. Those are all valid starts. They will help you in your Bible study and reflection. Don’t be ashamed to question things too! That’s another way a framework helps getting a deep dive to Christian teachings.
Community
Christians aren’t solo fliers! Everyone, even those across different denominations, is called to participate in a wider community of believers in God. Having a community where you can pray together, study the Bible together, and learn more about God together will enrich your understanding in ways that no reclusive study will ever accomplish.
Prayer
Naturally, a daily prayer habit is essential to exploring the mysteries of God’s identity. Contrary to what skeptics say, genuine prayer isn’t self-talk. It is a willing openness to speak to the Most High and then a bigger openness to hear Him. It requires a detachment from worldly distractions and a focus on the higher truth of God as told in the Bible and through his prophets.
Understanding the Role of Names in a Deep Dive to Christian Teachings
Another important thing to understand is that there is a power in names used in the Bible. Today, we think of names as just labels for things. However, that is not how writers of the Bible thought. Anyone serious about learning about the name of God should be ready to adopt their perspective on names.
This does not just apply to God either. The names of spirits, angels, and even the Great Adversary abide by the powers of names. So, if you can’t even treat the names of the archangels or the prophets with reverence, how worse off will you be when you study God’s names in the Bible?
Here’s a quick lesson. Back in Jesus’ time, a name was deeply tied to a person’s identity, mission, and character. Jesus’ own name means “Yahweh saves.” It was a declaration of His purpose and role in Christian salvation history.
Let us also remember that “Israel” means “he struggles with God,” marking Jacob’s transformative encounter. These are not arbitrary labels. God deliberately granted such names to mark the destiny of Jacob’s descendants.
Moreover, in the Bible, to call upon someone’s name was to invoke their authority or presence. This is evident in passages like Proverbs 18:10, which says, “The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.”
Names used in the Bible carry power, invoke prophecies, and demand respect. This is why the misuse of names, especially God’s, is condemned in the Ten Commandments.
When studying names such as “Jehovah,” “El Shaddai,” or even the innocuous “Abba,” those who want a deep dive to Christian teachings should reflect on their meanings. They must know the contexts in which these names were revealed and the impact they had on those who heard them. Likewise, the names of beings like Michael and Gabriel carry not only identification but also descriptions of their divine role. Dismissing or misusing these names shows a shallow understanding of the spiritual realities they represent.
Getting the Tools for Further Study
Now, suppose you may already be at a much later stage in your understanding of God but are now unsure and still want answers.
As always, the best ones are simple: seek the wisdom of others while always paying close attention to the voice of the Most High. Keep reading, keep praying, and above all else, keep the faith.
Speaking of reading, remember that you can also check out Glory to Glory on Amazon for more reflections and insights on the name of God and all his greatness.
