A name is so meaningful that people name their dogs "Fido" and "Satan," their mules "Rebel" and
"Lucifer," but their sons "James" and "John." If there is nothing in a name, why not reverse the
order and call the boys "Fido" and "Lucifer"? Yes, friends, there is something in a name and
especially in the God given ones.
The church of the Lord should not be adorned with human names but rather should wear only the
terms God has chosen. The God given designations for the church are:
(1) "Church of God" (1 Cor. 1:2). This shows ownership; it belongs to God.
(2) "Churches of Christ" (Rom. 16:16). The writer is speaking of the various local churches or congregations. This designates them as belonging to Christ.
(3) "The church of the living God" (1 Tim. 3:15). This also indicates ownership.
(4) "The church of the firstborn" (Heb. 12:23). The firstborn of the ancient families were heirs and were to receive the birthright. Thus, the Lord's church is made up of those who are the heirs of the promises.
The expressions "body of Christ" and "church of Christ" show ownership. It is of Christ and
belongs to Christ. He is the one who built it (Matt. 16:18) and gave Himself for it (Eph. 5:25).
He shed His blood to purchase it (Acts 20:28). It was named after Him (Rom. 16:16).
The Lord's church has a method or system in its worship and work, but it should not be called the
"Methodist Church" because it glorifies the method rather that the giver of the method. His
church is universal (Catholic) in nature, but it should not be named the "Catholic Church" or the
"Universal Church" because it honors the nature of the church rather than the One who made it
thus.
The Lord's commands include such things as baptism and repentance, but His church should not
be called the "Baptist Church" or the "Repentist Church" because that glorifies the commands
above the giver of the commands. Furthermore, the members of His church are called
"Christians," but His church should not be named the "Christian Church" because it exalts the
Christians above the One who made them Christians.
Christ's church should be named after Him (It is His. He built it. He died for it. God named it after Him) that in all things He might be glorified.