No Other Name

Readings:
I Chronicles 4
Acts 4:1-12

Focus:
Acts 4:12:"There is no salvation through anyone else; in all the world no other name has been granted to mankind by which we can be saved."

It was through the name of Jesus that Peter and John had been able to heal a man who had been born unable to walk. When they were arrested because of this, and asked in what name or power they were able to do this, they answered frankly: it was in the name of Jesus, and only in his name. There is no other name, they said, that has this power. In fact, there is no other name by which we can be saved.

This is an exclusive claim that Biblical Christianity makes, but it is not an exclusivist claim. Being saved by the name of Jesus Christ brings joy and freedom. This is something that we would like everyone to have and to know in their lives as well--everyone, without exception. If only everyone would take the gift that Jesus offers!