Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11

In the early 1990s, a popular chorus echoed through churches every Sunday. Written by Noel Richards, it captured a truth that resonated deeply with Christians. Titled “There is Power in the Name of Jesus,” its lyrics proclaimed:

There is power in the name of Jesus | We believe in His name

We have called on the name of Jesus | We are saved, we are saved!

At His name, the demons flee | At His name, captives are freed

For there is no other name | That is higher than Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus | Like a sword in our hands

We declare in the name of Jesus | We shall stand, we shall stand!

At His name, God’s enemies | Shall be crushed beneath our feet

For there is no other name | That is higher than Jesus

The song reflected a truth Christians believe in their hearts. For some, it was a personally experienced truth, while for others, it was a truth they embraced and sought to apply, especially in prayer.

Beyond its catchy melody, the song’s credibility stemmed from the biblical theology underpinning it.  “There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). The Gospels are packed with accounts of Jesus casting out demons and freeing people from their influence.  The song also alludes to the ultimate triumph of Jesus through his resurrection, a victory over all his adversaries.

This truth, valid 2,000 years ago and echoed in song 30 years ago, remains a vital principle for us to live by and integrate into our lives today.

 Throughout March, we will focus on praying in the name of Jesus, reaffirming his central place in our faith journey and shaping how we interact with others, both within and outside the church.