The Supreme One

The Supreme One
SALVATION’S NAME
Terry R. Baughman

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:9–11 NIV).

Corporations spend thousands, even millions of dollars on their brand and shaping public perception of their organizations. From their logos, to slogans, to advertising jingles, they purposefully plan their strategies to promote their brand identity and create a positive perception of their businesses. It is vital to their success and their profit line that their image reflects favorable impressions on the population. Financial institutions want to exude stability and solvency. Insurance companies want inspire security through their ability to provide protection. Sports enterprises want to project strength, endurance, and a winning reputation of association with championship. 

Successful brands find a common basis in a recognizable name and the perception they inspire. Certain names have a ring of excellence, like Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, or Rolex. Other names invoke pride and superiority above others. Think Rolls Royce, Ritz-Carlton, or Swarovski. Strength and security are often associated with some names like Brinks, Gibraltar, or Fort Knox. More recently technology brands vie for top recognition and dominance in the marketplace. Names like Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have become universally recognized. 

Though brands and corporate identities rise and fall there is one name that remains superior to every other. Only one has withstood the test of time and remains unwaveringly trustworthy, highly valued, and ultimately superior. There is one name that stands above every name that is named. That name is Jesus! 

Jesus is supreme in position. His is the name above all others. Paul said, “God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:9 NIV). He declared Jesus Christ to the highest authority, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him” (Colossians 1:17–19 NIV. Also, see 2:9–10). 

Jesus is supreme in power. Again Paul wrote, “What is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come” (Ephesians 1:19–21).

Jesus is supreme in praise. The sacrifice of His life to provide redemption for all humanity requires the adoration of heaven and earth. John wrote, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12). The Psalmist declared that the Lord alone is  the name worthy of praise, “That they may know that You, whose name alone is the Lord, Are the Most High over all the earth” (Psalm 83:18). 

Salvation’s name is Jesus and He alone is worthy of praise!
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Theme passage:
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12 NIV).

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