Since childhood, I have always ended my prayers with the words, in Jesus’ name, Amen. That’s how I learned to pray. But recently, the question has been on my mind, What does it mean? The phrase “in Jesus’ name” is not just something we tack on at the end of our prayer. I discovered that these words mean something important.
What did Jesus say about praying in His name?
“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” John 13-14
When our requests, made in the name of His Son, further God’s purposes and kingdom, God will act on our behalf, and in the end the Father will be “glorified in the Son”.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” John 15:16
“In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” John 16:23-24
It’s Like This
In the old American West, before the days of credit cards, a shopkeeper would maintain a ledger book recording the activities of each customer’s account and the amount owed. The business owner knew his customers well and the work in which they were involved. A customer would at times send others to the shop for him to make purchases and bring back materials needed for his home or business. Those sent in the customer’s stead (e.g., his children) would be able to receive the goods “in the name of” the account owner. But, if they tried to purchase things not in line with what the shopkeeper knew the customer needed or wanted, the purchase would be denied.
Coming to God in Jesus’ name is similar. Jesus holds the account, and we are welcome to come to the Father in Jesus’ name to receive what we need. The Father willingly grants our requests because of Jesus’ standing.
Of course, if we are asking for things that we don’t need or that are contrary to the character or will of Christ, then we cannot expect to receive those things. (See James 4:3) Instead, to pray in Jesus’ name means that we pray for what will glorify God, and for His will to be done. It means we pray like Jesus would pray.
And finally, we must remember that God’s name is holy. The Bible has a lot to say about His name. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He said,
“This, then, is how you should pray:
‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name …'” Matthew 6:9
Hallowed be thy name – The word “hallowed” means to render or pronounce holy… and the meaning of this petition is, “Let thy name be celebrated, venerated, and esteemed as holy everywhere, and receive from all people proper honor.” (Barnes Notes on the Bible)
One commentator writes that in Jesus’ name“ means “For Your glory, in honor of Your purposes, and according to Your will I pray…Amen.” (Daniel Henderson.)
As we end our prayers with the words, “in Jesus’ name“, may it be with understanding, reverence, and a heart that seeks the glory of God.
In His Love, Cindy
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“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you.”
Psalm 122:6
All Scripture is from the NIV unless stated otherwise.
Sources: GotQuestions.org
Pastor Daniel Henderson
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