The Name That is Higher

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth. (Philippians 2:8-10)

The Greek word for “name" is onoma. In the biblical world, a name was not just something parents chose because it sounded good. Your onoma described your character, your rank, and your authority. When Paul said God gave Jesus a name above every name, he meant God gave Him authority above every other authority in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. Every knee shall bow to the onoma of Jesus. This includes things in heaven, angels, spiritual wickedness in high places, things on earth—that is, every human being, every earthly authority, and every government and institution—and things under the earth—that is, every demonic force, including Satan himself.

This is not a future hope of something that will eventually happen. This is the present reality of what the cross and the resurrection produced. But notice what came before Jesus’ exaltation. He was willing to humble Himself by being obedient unto death. The authority Jesus exercised came through the obedience He was willing to practice. And that authority is now the foundation on which every believer stands.

Satan is defeated, but defeated does not mean inactive. A defeated enemy whose loss is not being enforced will keep operating as if they have not lost. You have to use the authority you have been given. A name above every name has been given to you. Every time you pray in that name, every time you make a declaration in that name, every time you stand on the Word in that name, you are enforcing a victory that has already been won.

Practical Application

Is there a situation in your life right now where the enemy is acting as though he has not been defeated? Today, take your authority in the name of Jesus over that specific situation. Declare out loud that it must submit to the Word of God by the authority of the name of Jesus. Enforce the victory Jesus has already given you.

Ephesians 1:21; Acts 4:12