"In Jesus Name" 3/17/26

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Jesus taught us,

"Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." (John 16:23-24)

"In Jesus Name"

We say the words so often in our prayers, but do we ever think about what (and why) we're saying them.

1) Asking in His name communicates a relationship with Jesus. If I went to the White House and said "Trump invited me" I wouldn't be let in, because he doesn't know me from Adam; we don't have a relationship. Anyone can say the name Jesus, but God listens to those who love and trust in His Son Jesus. 

2) Asking in His name puts the focus on Jesus (he's the reason we come). When we pray we acknowledge that we're only here by His blood. You and I don't deserve this. His grace alone is the reason we are adopted as sons of God. The privilege to enter into the throne room of God is a gift from God through Jesus Christ our Lord (John 1:12-13, Ephesians 2:18).

3) Asking in His name communicates that He would agree with our prayer (1 John 5:14). If my child says "Daddy, can we watch TV? Mommy said we could watch TV," their appeal depends entirely on whether or not Mommy actually said so. If I go to their mother and find out she did not say so, their appeal means nothing. But if they are reporting to me their mother's will, the answer to their appeal will be quite different. 

Would Jesus be pleased with the requests you make in his name?

Consider these things when you pray, and remember God is pleased when His dear children come to Him in the name of His beloved Son.

In Christ's Service,

Matt