Lord

By He Reads Truth

Scripture Reading: Genesis 15:1-6, Exodus 4:10-16, Deuteronomy 10:17-21, Matthew 14:22-32, John 20:24-29, 1 Corinthians 8:5-6, Revelation 17:14

In this reading plan, we are learning more about God by studying the names given to Him in Scripture. Each day, you’ll come here to read the description of the name we’re studying today and a brief explanation of how God’s character is seen through His name. (Remember that because the Bible was originally written in Hebrew and Greek, some of God’s names are written in the English form of His name from their original language.) You can then head to today’s passages to see how this name functions in Scripture.

LORD: A title of honor, respecting the authority and ruling power of God

In the Old Testament, adonay, or “lord,” was a common way to refer to God. It comes from the word used to describe human masters who ruled over servants. The Israelites used it verbally instead of pronouncing the name Yahweh, and it communicated their reverence for the Holy God of Israel as their ruler and ultimate authority. Adonay is a reminder that we serve a holy, sovereign God who is Lord over all.

Kurios, or “lord” in the New Testament, was used to show respect to people with authority, like emperors or masters. It is used to describe both God the Father and Jesus the Son in the New Testament. In the Gospels, Jesus’s followers called Him by this name as a sign of honor. In Paul’s letters, he used the word as a title for the risen Jesus. “Lord Jesus Christ” became a primary way to refer to Him, implying He shares the authority of the God of Israel. Kurios is a powerful name of honor for Jesus.