Why does the Bible have so many different names for Jesus?
Here's the answer:
In Old Testament times, the tradition or culture of the people was to call their children by a name that meant something.
For example, Joshua means "God delivered," Jacob means "he cheats," and Peter means "rock." Parents wanted to name their children something that had meaning.
The same applies to Jesus! He had many different things to do here on earth, so He had many different names. Let’s take a look at a few of Jesus’ names and their meanings:
1. Immanuel: means "God with us." "The virgin is going to have a baby. She will give birth to a son. And he will be called Immanuel. The name Immanuel means "God with us" (Matthew 1:23).
2. Jesus: means "save His people." "She is going to have a son. You must give him the name Jesus. That is because he will save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21).
3. Messiah: means "Anointed One, King." "The woman said, ‘I know that Messiah is coming.’ (He is called Christ.) ‘When he comes, he will explain everything to us’" (John 4:25).
4. Son of God: means Jesus is God's Son. "A voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, and I love him. I am very pleased with him'" (Matthew 3:17).
5. Son of Man: means that when Jesus was born, He was a man and God at the same time. "Jesus then began to teach his disciples. He taught them that the Son of Man must suffer many things. He taught them that the elders would not accept him. The chief priests and the teachers of the law would not accept him either. He must be killed and after three days rise again" (Mark 8:31).
As you can see, there are many names that Jesus was known by. We have only given you a few—there are many more! Although people usually call Him Jesus, each of these names describe something about who Jesus is.
Bible Truth
"So God lifted him up to the highest place. He gave him the name that is above every name. When the name of Jesus is spoken, everyone’s knee will bow to worship him. Every knee in heaven and on earth and under the earth will bow to worship him" (Philippians 2:9–10).
"A child will be born to us. A son will be given to us. He will rule over us. And he will be called Wonderful Adviser and Mighty God. He will also be called Father Who Lives Forever and Prince Who Brings Peace" (Isaiah 9:6).
