The sermon delivered by John Reeves on October 12, 2025, focuses on the theological significance of the name of God, particularly the name "Jehovah," as a representation of God's covenantal, redemptive nature. Reeves emphasizes that "Jehovah" is God's most proper name, reflecting His eternal existence and personal relationship with His people, differentiating it from titles like "Elohim," which often represent His creative power. Key Scriptures, including Psalms 83:18 and Revelation 1:4, reinforce this distinction, highlighting the importance of understanding God's names in their context to appreciate His character. The doctrinal significance is profound, as Reeves argues that recognizing the covenantal aspect of God's name leads to a deeper trust in Him and a greater understanding of His redemptive work throughout Scripture. The sermon ultimately encourages believers to acknowledge the different names of God as reflections of His multifaceted nature and His promises to His people.
Key Quotes
“The title for today's chapter is Jehovah, God's Covenant Redemptive Name. Jehovah is God's most famous name.”
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“Jehovah is God who is, who was, and who is to come.”
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“Whereas Lord implies a covenant relationship and shows God's dealings with His own people.”
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“The name Jehovah is frequently used as a compound with other words to set forth some specific aspect of God's character.”
The name Jehovah signifies God's eternal and covenantal nature as the self-existent being.
In the Bible, the name Jehovah is the most significant name of God, embodying His eternality and covenantal relationship with His people. The name comes from the root word that means 'to be,' thus indicating that Jehovah is the self-existent One who always was, is, and will be, as seen in Revelation 1:4. Psalms 83:18 emphasizes this exclusivity of the name Jehovah, stating that it is known only to the true God, distinguishing Him from all false deities who bear various names.
Revelation 1:4, Psalms 83:18
The name Jehovah signifies God's eternal and covenantal nature, highlighting His role as the self-existent being.
The name Jehovah, as explored in the Bible, emphasizes God's unique position as the self-existent, eternal being. It is not merely a title but represents His covenantal relationship with His people. For instance, in Psalms 83:18, it is proclaimed that Jehovah is the most high over all the earth, illustrating His sovereign authority. Additionally, Revelation 1:4 affirms that Jehovah is the one who 'is, who was, and who is to come,' underscoring His unchanging and eternal presence throughout history.
Psalms 83:18, Revelation 1:4
God's covenant is affirmed through His faithful actions and the fulfilling of promises throughout Scripture.
The truth of God's covenant can be observed in His consistent dealings with His people throughout biblical history. As described in the sermon, God's names such as Jehovah emphasize His commitment to covenant promises. For instance, in 1 Samuel 17:46-47, David declares that 'the battle is the Lord's,' which reflects God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. This covenant is grounded in the relationship between God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who actively participate in the salvation of the elect, showcasing God’s unwavering faithfulness.
1 Samuel 17:46-47
God's sovereignty is affirmed throughout Scripture, demonstrating His authority over creation and His covenant relationship with His people.
The doctrine of God's sovereignty is central to Reformed theology and is evidenced throughout Scripture. For example, in Genesis 1, God is portrayed as the Creator, asserting His authority over all creation. In contrasting terminology, terms like 'Lord God' express His covenantal relationship with His people, showing His active role in their lives. This duality between His role as Creator and Lord highlights a personal relationship that believers experience under His sovereign hand. Furthermore, passages like Isaiah 46:10 affirm His ultimate power over all events, asserting that 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.' Thus, understanding God's sovereignty allows us to trust in His divine plan.
Isaiah 46:10, Genesis 1
Understanding God's names reveals His character and how He interacts with His people.
Recognizing the varied names of God helps Christians comprehend His multifaceted nature and how He relates to us. Each name, like Jehovah Jireh ('The Lord will provide') or Jehovah Nissi ('The Lord our Banner'), illustrates different aspects of His divine character and provision in our lives. Knowledge of these names cultivates deeper trust and worship, as seen in Psalms 9:10, which states that those who know His name put their trust in Him. This understanding fosters a more personal relationship with God, acknowledging Him not just as a distant creator, but as actively involved in our lives.
Psalms 9:10
Understanding God's names deepens our relationship with Him, revealing His character and how He interacts with His creation.
Understanding the various names of God is vital for Christians as these names convey different aspects of His nature and attributes. For instance, names like Jehovah Jireh (the Lord will provide) and Jehovah Rapha (the Lord that heals) illustrate how God meets the needs of His people. In the historical context of the Old Testament, these names served not only to define His character but also to assure His covenant people of His faithfulness and capability. Moreover, knowing these names enriches personal worship and prayer, offering a deeper appreciation of God's multifaceted relationships with believers. A.W. Pink stresses the importance of these distinct names in preserving the beauty and richness of God's revelation throughout Scripture.
Genesis 22:14, Exodus 15:26, Psalms 23:1
Jehovah Jireh means 'The Lord will provide,' highlighting God's provision for His people.
The name Jehovah Jireh signifies God's assurance of provision for those who are His. This was exemplified when Abraham, in a moment of testing, assured his son Isaac that God would provide a lamb for the sacrifice (Genesis 22:14). This demonstrates not only God's provision in physical needs but also points to the provision of Jesus Christ as the ultimate sacrifice. The use of Jehovah Jireh encourages believers to rely on God's providential care in their lives, reminding us that He knows our needs and will meet them according to His will.
Genesis 22:14
Jehovah Jireh, meaning 'the Lord will provide,' signifies God's provision and faithfulness to His people.
Jehovah Jireh is one of the most recognized names of God in Scripture, meaning 'the Lord will provide.' This title emerged from a significant event in Abraham's life when he demonstrated his faith by preparing to sacrifice his son Isaac. In Genesis 22:14, God provided a ram in place of Isaac, symbolizing His ability to meet the needs of His people. This name is not just historical but extends to all believers, assuring them that God sees their needs and provides appropriately—in material, spiritual, and emotional realms. It is a reminder of His unshakeable faithfulness and the provision found in Christ, who fulfills God's promises.
Genesis 22:14
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