Names of Jesus and Their Meanings
The names of Jesus and their meanings represent a central theme in Christian theology, faith, and devotion. This article examines the biblical foundations for some of the most significant names and titles given to Jesus–such as Christ, Son of God, Son of Man, Lamb of God, King of kings, and others–and explains how they define his true identity and mission. Through careful examination of Scripture and engagement with established scholarly resources, we will demonstrate how each title contributes to our understanding of Jesus Christ’s life, purpose, ministry, and destiny.
Historical Context of Christological Names
The practice of assigning divine and royal names to Israel’s God (Yahweh) has deep roots in the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament), where each title encapsulates an aspect of God’s character or redemptive activity. With the incarnation, these divine names are applied to Jesus, revealing the unity of his person with the Father, while also testifying to his distinct role in salvation history. Jesus Christ is known by numerous names and titles in the Bible, each revealing aspects of his character, identity, and mission.[1] Thus, Christian doctrine finds the origins of Christological terms in both Jewish monotheism and the prophetic anticipation of the Messiah.
Christ: The Anointed One
The term Christ (Christos) derives from the Hebrew “Mashiach,” meaning “anointed one” or “Messiah.” This title anticipates the inauguration of God’s kingdom through a royal and priestly figure anointed by the Spirit (Psalm 2:2; Isaiah 61:1). One of Jesus’ most significant titles is Christ, which indicates his role in establishing God’s kingdom on earth. Accordingly, when Peter declares, “Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified” (Acts 2:36), he affirms that the promised Davidic King has arrived. Christ thus integrates royal authority, prophetic office, and priestly mediation–a composite messianic role foretold throughout the Old Testament.
Son of God and Son of Man
Two pivotal titles highlight both the divinity and humanity of Jesus: Son of God and Son of Man. The title “Son of God” emphasizes Jesus’ unique and eternal relationship with the Father (John 1:18; John 10:30), while “Son of Man” highlights his human identity connected to the Old Testament scriptures. It underscores that, while Jesus shares the divine nature (Philippians 2:6), he also assumes genuine human nature (Hebrews 2:14-17). The title “Son of Man” also draws upon Daniel 7:13-14, portraying a heavenly figure endowed with universal dominion. When Jesus applies this title to himself (Mark 14:62), he affirms both his identification with Israel’s suffering servant and his lordship over creation.
Lamb of God: The Sacrificial Advocate
The designation “Lamb of God” (John 1:29) draws the reader’s eye to the sacrificial system of Israel. The Passover lamb of Exodus 12 and the sin offerings of Leviticus 4 foreshadow Jesus’ atoning death. “Lamb of God” refers to Jesus’ sacrificial role in atoning for sin.[2] As the perfect Lamb, he accomplishes all that the daily sacrifices could only signify (Hebrews 10:10-14). The Book of Revelation also echoes this theme: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12).
King of Kings and Lord of Lords
In Revelation 19:16, Christ is proclaimed King of kings and Lord of lords–a title that signals his supreme authority over every earthly ruler and cosmic power. The title “King of kings and Lord of lords” underscores his supreme authority over all creation.[2] This designation collects Old Testament promises of Yahweh’s universal rule (Exodus 15:18; Psalm 103:19) and applies them to the risen and exalted Christ. By this name, the New Testament conveys the eschatological hope that all dominions will bow to him (Philippians 2:10-11) and that his throne shall endure “from generation to generation” (Psalm 45:6).
Alpha and Omega, Immanuel, and the Logos
Other titles affirm Christ’s eternal nature, presence among his people, and revelatory function. “Alpha and Omega,” as found in Revelation 1:8 and 22:13, signifies that Christ is the beginning and the end of all creation–He who was, and is, and is to come. Another important title is “Immanuel,” meaning “God with us.” Immanuel roots us in the prophetic announcement of Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:23, assuring believers that God entered human history in Jesus. Finally, the Apostle John opens his Gospel: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… And the Word became flesh” (John 1:1, 14). The title “Word” (Greek, Logos) or “Word of God” emphasizes Jesus’ role in revealing God’s truth.[3] These names collectively demonstrate that Christ is the eternal Logos who discloses the invisible God to fallen humanity.
The Names of Providence: Jehovah Jireh and Jehovah Nissi
Although associated primarily with Yahweh’s designations in the Old Testament, the names Jehovah Jireh (“The Lord Will Provide”) and Jehovah Nissi (“The Lord Is My Banner”) anticipate the provision and protection fulfilled in Jesus Christ. At Mount Moriah, Abraham names the place of Isaac’s near-sacrifice: “And Abraham called the name of the place, ‘The Lord will provide’; as it is said to this day, ‘On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided’” (Genesis 22:14). In Christ, God indeed provides a substitute (Isaac is a type of Christ, the Redeemer), and sovereign provision becomes personal in Jesus as the bread of life (John 6:35). Similarly, after Israel’s victory at Rephidim, Moses builds an altar and names it, Jehovah Nissi: “For he said, ‘A banner will the Lord hold out over you, that your enemies may see your glory’” (Exodus 17:15-16). Christ’s cross stands as the true banner of triumph (Colossians 2:15), and he rallies his people under that victorious sign (Ephesians 2:14-16).
Bread of Life, Light of the World, Good Shepherd
The Gospel of John presents an array of evocative titles illustrating Christ’s provision, illumination, and guidance. He declares, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35), promising spiritual sustenance without end. Jesus also proclaims, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12), offering orientation amid spiritual darkness. Finally, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). He cares for and secures his flock as Psalm 23:1 had proclaimed, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Each pastoral image portrays an aspect of Christ’s redemptive ministry, calling his people to trust and follow.
These titles of Jesus are examples of “I Am” statements found in the Gospel of John. Throughout John’s narrative, Jesus uses powerful metaphors to reveal his divine identity and his saving relationship with humanity. Each statement not only points to who Jesus is, but also to what he provides for those who believe in him. There are seven “I Am” statements of jesus, as follows:
“I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35, 48)
Jesus said, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” This means Jesus is the spiritual sustenance for our souls, satisfying our deepest needs.
“I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12; 9:5)
Jesus declared, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” He brings truth and guidance, dispelling spiritual darkness.
“I am the door.” (John 10:7, 9)
Jesus said, “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.” He is the only way to salvation and security.
“I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11, 14)
Jesus stated, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” He cares for, protects, and sacrifices himself for his people.
“I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)
Jesus told Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” He has power over life and death, offering eternal life.
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6)
Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” He is the exclusive path to God, the embodiment of truth, and the source of life.
“I am the true vine.” (John 15:1, 5)
Jesus declared, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser… I am the vine; you are the branches.” He is the source of spiritual life and fruitfulness for believers.
These identifying statements not only affirm Jesus’ deity–echoing God’s self-revelation as “I AM” in Exodus 3:14–but also show his unique role in God’s plan of salvation.
What are the Names of Jesus and what do they Mean?
When one asks simply, “What are the names of Jesus?” the biblical answer extends far beyond a handful of titles. They range from Abba (Romans 8:15; “Father” in Aramaic), to Wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:24), to Rose of Sharon (Song 2:1; applied allegorically in the Song of Solomon). He is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), the Living Water (John 4:10), the True Vine (John 15:1), the Sun of Righteousness (Malachi 4:2), the Bridegroom (Matthew 9:15), the Cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20), the Horn of Salvation (Luke 1:69), and many more. Taken collectively, these other names for Jesus form an A-to-Z lexicon of Christological titles that reveal each facet of his person and work.
A to Z Names of Jesus
Below is a representative A-to-Z list, though many other titles could be added:
A - Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8)
B - Bread of Life (John 6:35)
C - Christ/Messiah (Matthew 16:16)
D - Dayspring (Luke 1:78)
E - Emmanuel (Matthew 1:23)
F - Faithful and True (Revelation 19:11)
G - Good Shepherd (John 10:11)
H - Holy One (Acts 3:14)
I - Image of the Invisible God (Colossians 1:15)
J - Jehovah Jireh (Genesis 22:14)
K - King of Kings (Revelation 19:16)
L - Light of the World (John 8:12)
M - Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5)
N - Nazarene (Matthew 2:23)
O - Only Begotten Son (John 3:16)
P - Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)
Q - Quickening (the Giver of Life, John 5:21)
R - Root of David (Revelation 5:5)
S - Son of Man (Mark 10:45)
T - True Vine (John 15:1)
U - Upholder of All Things (Hebrews 1:3)
V - Vine and Branches (John 15:5)
W - Word of God (John 1:1)
X - eXalted One (Acts 2:33)
Y - YHWH (“I Am,” John 8:58)
Z - Zion’s King (Psalm 2:6; Revelation 14:1)
What Does Jehovah Jireh and Jehovah Nissi Mean?
As stated earlier, Jehovah Jireh literally means “The Lord will provide.” Given at the climax of Abraham’s test (Genesis 22:14), it anticipates the substitutionary atonement provided by Christ. Jehovah Nissi means “The Lord is my banner.” As Moses’ memorial of victory over Amalek (Exodus 17:15-16), it prefigures the standard of triumph displayed at Calvary.
Theological Significance and Mission
The rich tapestry of Christological names reveals the complexity of Jesus’ person and work. He is at once King and Servant, Priest and Prophet, God and Man. The title “Son of God” points to his eternal generation and ontological unity with the Father (John 1:18), while “Son of Man” brings to view his solidarity with sinners, able to sympathize with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15). Christ’s designation as “Lamb of God” affirms that he bears the penalty for sin (1 Peter 1:18-19), satisfying divine justice and inaugurating the new covenant (Luke 22:20). Titles of provision and protection–Bread of Life, Good Shepherd, Jehovah Jireh, Jehovah Nissi–drive home the truth that believers find sustenance, guidance, and safety exclusively in him (John 10:27; Philippians 4:19). His royal titles–Christ, King of Kings, Root of David–declare that all authority in heaven and earth resides in him (Matthew 28:18; Revelation 5:13). Finally, his eternal titles–Alpha and Omega, First and Last, Word of God–bear witness to his deity and his supremacy as Creator and Sustainer (Colossians 1:16-17; Revelation 22:13).
Practical Implications for the Church
Understanding the multiplicity of Christ’s names and titles fosters a deeper devotion and shapes Christian worship and discipleship. When Christians proclaim Jesus as “Prince of Peace,” they commit to peacemaking (Matthew 5:9). When they call upon “Jehovah Jireh,” they live by faith in God’s provision (Matthew 6:31-33). Recognizing him as “Judge of the living and the dead” (Acts 10:42) compels purity and accountability. Liturgical use of Christological titles in hymns, creeds, and prayers roots the congregation in biblical confession and aligns corporate worship with the totality of Jesus’ work and identity.
Conclusion
The biblical names of Jesus–Christ, Son of God, Son of Man, Lamb of God, King of Kings, and scores of others–are not mere labels, but windows into the mystery of his Incarnation, atonement, and eternal reign. Jesus Christ is known by numerous names and titles in the Bible, each revealing aspects of his character, identity, and mission. The title “Son of God” emphasizes Jesus’ unique relationship with God, while “Son of Man” highlights his human identity. “Lamb of God” and “Suffering Servant” refer to Jesus’ sacrificial role in atoning for sin. The title “King of kings and Lord of lords” underscores his supreme authority over everything. Other important titles include “Alpha and Omega,” signifying Jesus as the beginning and end of all things, and “Immanuel,” meaning “God with us.” He is also called the “Bread of Life,” “Light of the World,” and “Good Shepherd,” each illustrating his role in providing spiritual nourishment, guidance, and protection. The title “Word” or “Word of God” emphasizes Jesus’ role in revealing God’s truth.
These names and titles collectively define Christ’s divine identity, human nature, and his multifaceted mission of salvation, leadership, and revelation. They underscore his pre-eminence over creation, his role as the perfect sacrifice for sin, and his position as the supreme ruler of the church and all creation. The abundance and variety of these titles highlight the complexity and fullness of Jesus’ person and work.[4]
Endnotes
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Mark Water, Bible Study Made Easy, The Made Easy Series (Alresford, Hampshire: John Hunt Publishers Ltd, 1998), 46-47.
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Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nelson’s Complete Book of Bible Maps & Charts: Old and New Testaments, Rev. and updated ed. (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1996).
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Life Application Bible Notes (Tyndale, 2007), 1775.
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Charles R. Swindoll and Roy B. Zuck, Understanding Christian Theology (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2003), 327.