“So they brought the apostles back in and had them severely beaten. They ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus and then let them go.” Acts 5:40 TPT
We are in a day when the name of Jesus is being mocked, ridiculed, and scorned. Hollywood has desensitized us to use His name as a swear word, without even batting an eye! Those who love the name and live for Him, are being severely tested and coming under attack. Globally Christians are the most persecuted group. Jesus said that if the world hates Me it will hate you too (John 15:18)! Over 100,000 Christians every year are martyred!
It was preaching in the name of Jesus that got the disciples in trouble (Acts 5:40). People don’t have a problem with miracles, or casting out demons, or talking about ‘God!’ Nor is it the preaching of self-help, ‘make us happy’ sermons that are a threat to the kingdom of darkness. It was preaching and proclaiming in the name of Jesus that got the Disciples in trouble, and will get us in trouble, because only the name of Jesus releases power, and makes the demons quiver.
Yes, at the name of Jesus, demons to shake (James 2:19)! At the name of Jesus every knee will bow and every tongue will confess He is Lord. Jesus’ Name is above every name (Philippians 2:9-11). At the name of Jesus people are saved, healed, delivered and are returning home!
Jesus said, “if you ask anything in My name I will do it” (John 14:14)! God is raising up men and women who KNOW the name of Jesus. In ‘My’ name we will cast out demons. In My Name, we will heal the sick. In My Name we will see miracles, because Jesus said that these signs will accompany the preaching in the name of Jesus (Mark 16:15-18)!!!
Ask God to show you how to live under the power of His name! So much of the church today is powerless, because we don’t know the One behind the name. Ask God to take you deeper in an intimate walk with Jesus. Seek Him and to know His name with all your heart. Cry out that your life would reflect His name! Ask God to release boldness to speak His name and to believe in all the signs and wonders that will accompany His name as you pray and minister to people around you. Cry out for the name of Jesus to truly be lifted high and preached loudly at your church and across our city!
