A Clay Jar

Encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory. (1 Thess. 2:12 NIV)

Do Everything in Jesus Name

Colossians 3:17

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“In Jesus’ Name” is a common expression in Christian circles. It is usually applied to our prayers and is frequently the closing phrase of those prayers. But there is another way that this expression is used in the New Testament. One that is not talked about nearly as much.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17 NIV

Here it deals with how I live my life, my words, and my actions. Everything I do or say should be done or said in the name of the Lord Jesus. I’m pretty sure this does not mean that we should verbally add “In Jesus’ Name” to everything we say or do. There is no indication that Paul, the author of this verse, did that himself.

A Representative of Jesus

A personal representative can speak or act for the person they are representing. And in doing so, they are speaking, or acting, in that person’s name. And this is what the expression means here, as well as when applied to our prayer.

Whenever we speak, and whatever we do, should be done as Jesus’ representative. In everything I say and do, I should be saying and doing what Jesus would be doing were he in my place. WWJD (What Would Jesus Do), is not just a cute slogan. It does have a firm scriptural basis. I really should take the time to determine what Jesus would do or say, and then do or say that.

It is also good to recognize that even if you are not consciously speaking and acting as Jesus representative, the opinion the people around you have towards Jesus is, at least in part, shaped by what you say and do. How many people turn their backs on Jesus because of the way that we represent him?  Don’t be guilty of that. Instead, work at being a good representative.

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Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.

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