Calling on the Name

Paul called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both their's and our's: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:1-3)

Paul began his letter to the church in Corinth, reminding them that the church is defined by those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus and call upon His name. The mark of the true church is not singing three contemporary songs and passing an offering bucket. It is a mutual revelation of the authority of Jesus and collectively calling on His name with understanding and authority.

This is critically important because you can mean well and even love Jesus, but if you're not following God's design, the authority in your life won't work. It's like trying to run a Windows program on a Mac; the system wasn't made for it. Many Christians struggle to understand why their prayers don't seem effective, and it's often because their faith is not in Jesus' name but in tradition, ritual, or their own efforts.

The church is not just a gathering of people; it is characterized by those who have revelation of the name of Jesus and use His name to bring Heaven's authority and the Father's plan to earth. Stop trying to force the wrong operating system to work. The kingdom only functions on one primary operating system: the name and authority of Jesus.

Practical Application

When you pray "in Jesus' name," pause and remember you are invoking His authority, not merely adding a phrase at the end of your prayer. Speak His name over your workplace, your home, and your family, knowing that you are using the authority given to you, not just following tradition.

Romans 1:7; Acts 10:36