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Monthly Question Page
Q. Can you explain the significance of the “new name” in the letter to Pergamos?
A. “To him that overcometh will I give…a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it” (Revelation 2:17).
Names in the Bible are not used simply to distinguish one person from another, but to set forth the individual character of a person as well as their relationship and worth to another. Often, when a person was brought into special relationship with the Lord, they had a name change. For example, Abram was changed to Abraham (Genesis 17:5), Jacob to Israel (Genesis 32:28), Simon to Peter (Mark 3:16).
In the context of our verse, “a new name” signifies very individual relationship and communion. It is only enjoyed between the One who gives it and the one who receives it. It is a special promise to the overcomer who refuses to settle down in this world and take any other name than that of the Lord Jesus who Himself was “despised and rejected of men” (Isaiah 53:3). This is secret communion between the believer and the Lord and is for our present enjoyment while we wait that time when we will enjoy it fully and unhinderedly in the Father’s house.
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