[This reflection by Martin Shorey was published in the weekly news bulletin of Horley Baptist Church, 08/Jun/2025]
“What’s in a name?” Juliet famously asked in Shakespeare’s tale of two star-crossed lovers, suggesting that a name is ultimately meaningless – that it doesn’t define a person’s true nature.
But the Bible tells a different story.
From the very beginning, God gave Adam the task of naming the animals (Genesis 2:19-20). This wasn’t just a creative assignment – it was an act of recognition and responsibility. To name something was to acknowledge its identity, take ownership of its care, and shape how it would be understood.
Throughout Scripture, names carry weight and significance. God often changed people’s names to mark turning points in their lives. Abram became Abraham – “father of many” – even before the promise was fulfilled. Jacob, whose name meant “deceiver,” became Israel – “one who wrestles with God” – after a transformative encounter. And when Jesus called Simon “Peter”, the rock, he was speaking not just to who Simon was, but to who he would become.
Last week at our church meeting, we didn’t just talk about bricks and budgets – we talked about what to name our new building project. It might seem like a small detail, but it really matters. Because the name won’t just describe a place – it will carry a vision. It will help people see the heart behind the project, inspire them to get involved through prayer, giving, and practical support, and remind us all of what we’re building for.
We want the name to speak of the direction we’re heading as a church – and of our hope to see God’s Kingdom come in real and tangible ways here in our community.
So – what’s in a name?
In Scripture, and in our story – far more than you might think.
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Last Sunday’s reflection: Do Whatever He Tells You by David Makanjuola
Contributed by Martin Shorey; © Martin Shorey