What does the Bible say about being given a new name?

In John 1:42, Jesus tells Simon, son of Jonah, that he shall be called Cephas, or Peter, meaning a stone. This signifies Jesus’ authority to redefine Simon's identity based on His grace and purpose. Throughout Scripture, similar transformations occur, reflecting the believer’s new life and identity in Christ. Romans 9:21 reminds us that God, the potter, has power over the clay, making one vessel for honor and another for dishonor, thus exemplifying His sovereign right to rename and repurpose His people according to His will.