Last Name Benefits

Nº 430

When we come to God through Christ, we do not merely receive a pardon; we receive a place at the royal table. We are adopted into the family of the King of kings. - Charles Spurgeon

Paul ends the first half of his letter to the Ephesians with a magnificent prayer. He begins, for this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. (Ephesians 3:14-15) 

In many cultures, children are given a unique first name, one that sounds pleasant, honors an ancestor, or carries a desired character quality. However, the last name is often derived from the father’s.  

So too, when we enter God’s spiritual family, we bring our personal first-name qualities into our new life - some good, some bad. Wonderfully, we also enjoy a new “last name” that offers us benefits we could only find within the family of God. 

My father was a high school football coach. His name provided me with access to the press box to watch games in a warm, dry environment with hot chocolate and doughnuts to boot. My first name had no power, but my relationship with my dad offered everything I needed.   

With privilege comes responsibility. The first verse of the second half of Ephesians begins, ...walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called...(Ephesians 4:1)

Enjoy the benefits, but honor the family name. 

Dan Bolin

Author & President