Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

In my opinion, the reference here in the statement of the risen, ascended, and glorified Christ to the church at Philadelphia is similar to the statement that He made in the previous chapter (Revelation 2:17) to the church at Pergamum. 

The "new name" is not referring to a new name for Jesus, but a new name that Jesus will give to those who endure and conquer over the persecution that they are undergoing by keeping Jesus' word and by not denying His name (Revelation 3:8). As noted in Revelation 2:17, this new name will be known only to the one who receives it.

My understanding is that Bible scholars have theorized this new name to be associated with the completion of the Holy Spirit's work in conforming believers to the holiness of Christ, which was begun during the earthly life of each believer (Romans 8:29; Colossians 3:10).

June 10 2018 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Aurel Gheorghe Supporter

Biblical names indicate character and ownership, thus those who overcome sin are given the character of God and proclaimed as His special people, citizens of heaven. They belong to God – He is not only the Creator, He is also the Redeemer (Isaiah 49:16). 

There are numerous examples in the Bible where God is giving His people a new name. The 144,000 they have their Father’s name written in their foreheads (Rev 14:1). Abram was given a new name, Abraham (Gen 17:5), Jacob's name was changed to Israel (Gen 32:28), and Saul, after his conversion, was called Paul (Acts 13:9). When we get baptized, we bury the old life and we get a new one (Rom 6:4) - and we get the name Christians - we belong to Christ now and our new life should reflect that - whatever we do and say should be for God's glory (Colossians 3:17).

June 10 2018 • 5 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report