There is no doubt that His given name was Jesus. The angel told Joseph, “You shall call His name Jesus…” (Matt. 1:21). Gabriel said to Mary, “Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus” (Luke 1:31). His given name is Jesus. However, this was not the only “name” He was given by God. Look at some of these other “names” and see the significance of each of them.
Immanuel
Over 700 years before His birth the Holy Spirit gave these words, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isa. 7:14). Why was His name Immanuel? The New Testament quotes these words and then defines this “name”: “Which is translated, ‘God with us’” (Matt. 1:23). This name of Jesus defines His deity. He was not only with God in the beginning, but He was God (John 1:1). He truly was God (deity) in the flesh!
Wonderful Counselor
Read these other words from Isaiah about His name. “For unto us a Child is born…and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isa. 9:6). Four “names” are given here with each of them being preceded by descriptive words—wonderful, mighty, everlasting and prince.
Is there any doubt that He manifests His wonderful name, His awesomeness, His deity seen in His miracles? Is there any doubt He is the supreme counselor? From Him comes all truth and every aspect of life and godliness (John 16:13; 2 Pet. 1:3).
Mighty God
The Godhead in the Old Testament is called the Almighty God. Jesus showed His power in overcoming death and the powers of Satan and manifesting Himself as King of all kings. He was God in the flesh—to see Him was to see God (John 14:9).
Everlasting Father
When one first sees these words, he might think the emphasis is that Jesus is the Father. No, He is the Son of God. Check the marginal reading. He is the “father of the ages.” He is the supreme focus of every period of man’s existence. He is supreme and has existed from eternity to eternity.
Prince of Peace
He is the source of all true peace. He said, “My peace I give to you” (John 14:27). He gives a peace no mortal can understand. Think on this “name” and all of them. Jesus is God and has every attribute of God and His “names” show this.