SECTION 2.--JESUS


Jesus is the personal name of our Lord. In ancient times names had often
a meaning and importance which they do not carry now. "Name" means a
word by which any person or thing is known, and names were originally
given from some quality attribute inherent in the person or thing to
which they were attached. Proper names among the Hebrews had a deeper
meaning and a closer connection with character and condition than
elsewhere. The care that marks the Scriptures in recording the origin of
names of individuals and places, the frequent allusions to names as
having a special relation to character or qualities, the solemnity with
which a change of name is stated as marking an epoch in the history of
individuals or nations, and the frequency with which names are
associated with great events, with promises, threats, or prophecies,
show the importance that was attached to them. This feature is most
marked in the use by the Jews of the word "Name" in reference to God.
The "Name of the Lord," or an equivalent expression, constantly occurs
to denote God Himself. His Name is in Scripture identified with His
character, marking His attributes and His nature as distinguished from
all other beings. The Name, Jehovah, by which God revealed Himself to
Moses was so closely identified by the Jews with the Divine Personality
and Holiness that it was never pronounced by them.

In Old Testament times the Deliverer foretold as the object of faith and
hope and love under the Gospel Dispensation was announced by a
declaration of His name. "His name shall be called Wonderful,
Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of
Peace."[034] Immediately before He appeared a messenger was sent from