MATTHEW 16:18
In a letter to his newborn son that he intended for the child to read in the future, a Chinese man expressed the following wish: “My beloved son, Daddy and Mummy named you Xin Xuan, wishing that you will find and remain focused on the Light. Xin means faithfulness, contentment, and integrity; Xuan means warmth and light.” Based on their expectations for their baby boy, they thoughtfully selected his name.
It was not a haphazard decision when Jesus changed Simon’s name to Peter/Cephas (John 1:42). Peter means “the rock.” But he did not live up to his new name right away. According to the tale of his life, he was a rash fisherman. However, the book of Acts tells us that God established His church through him by working in and through him. Peter grew to be a solid rock.
If you are a disciple of Jesus, like Peter, you have a new identity. The first time the disciples were referred to as Christians was in Antioch, according to Acts 11:26. “Christ-ones” is the meaning of the word “Christians.” The “Christ-ones” are us. This term exalts who we are while challenging us to develop into what we have not yet become. God is dependable, and He will complete what He has started.
🙏🏼Lord, help us to comprehend the meaning of being identified with Your Son, Jesus Christ, more thoroughly. Work with us and within us.
