What is the significance of God changing peoples’ names in the Bible, such as changing Abram’s name to Abraham?

Names are important. In Genesis 11, we see what happens when people want to make a name for themselves with the Tower of Babel. Short story, it doesn’t work.

With Abraham, he begins with the name Abram, which means “exalted father.” In Genesis 12, God promises Abraham, then Abram, that he will make of him a great nation, will bless him, make his name great, and finally, that he will be a blessing.

Throughout Abraham’s life he shows his trust in God; although, he also falters and tries to take his destiny into his own hands. Throughout Abraham’s story, God is faithful to His Word and acts with His timing. When Abraham (still Abram) and Sarah (still Sarai) are past the point of child-bearing years, God makes a covenant with Abraham in Genesis 17, changing his name from Abram to Abraham, which means “father of nations.”

When God gives a name, He points to what He is doing in the lives of His people. We fail in our faithfulness to who we are as God’s children, yet our God remains faithful to His promises to us, His dear children.

What is Good Shepherd Sunday?

Good Shepherd Sunday is, traditionally, the fourth Sunday of Easter. In John 10:1-18, Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd. This is what we celebrate on Good Shepherd Sunday. We have a God who loves us, sacrifices for us, and protects us from the dangers that would harm us as His sheep. Learn more about Good Shepherd Sunday in our Bible Study from the Rev. Dr. Thomas Ahlersmeyer on pages 20-21 of the May Broadcaster here.

What church body is your ministry affiliated with?

All of our pastors are LCMS trained (Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod), and we are a Registered Service Organization of the LCMS church. Though independent, we do agree to ensure that our content is in harmony with the doctrine and practice of the LCMS. We strive to walk alongside churches in your area—not to be a replacement for them. If you are looking for a church in your area, please contact us at (888) 286-8002 or info@worshipanew.org.

You can learn more about what we believe by visiting our website at worshipanew.org/about/what-we-believe. 

A note from the Editor ...
In our letters to the editor section, we would like to answer any and all questions that you have about scripture, aging well, and our ministry. Please send your questions to editor@worshipanew.org. Please know that we will try to answer as many questions as we can. Thank you and enjoy!