“For the Lord will not abandon His people on account of His great name, because the Lord has been pleased to make you a people for Himself.” - 1 Samuel 12:22 (NASB)
The name of God is far more than a label, sticker, or tag to be used as an ID. “His great name” as used in our verse today refers to His reputation, His fame, His renown, who He is. We use the word “name” in this way when we say “they are out to make a name for themselves.” We understand Samuel means to use “His name” this way when he says that God made Israel a people “for Himself” and that he would not cast Israel off “for his great name’s sake.” The Apostle Peter described God’s purpose for us in this promise: “You are a chosen race . . . that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” 1 Peter 2:9. Meaning, those who are the true church are chosen by God to make a name for Him in the world. Let’s remember, we are joining God in his God-centeredness. And for us, that means being a Christ-dependent, Christ-exalting people. “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” Colossians 3:17 NASB.
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Some content of this blog was gleaned from Desiring God by John Piper.
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