“In Jesus’ Name” Is More Than a Closing Phrase of a Christian’s Prayer

“In Jesus Name” has become a “catch phrase” with which to conclude a Christian prayer. This article attempts to seriously challenge a “simple” understanding of this important phrase by examining the teaching of the New Testament. To invoke the name of Jesus was to identify the follower of Jesus as one who belongs to Christ and shares the life of Christ with all the challenges, responsibilities, and privileges that is incumbent upon that relationship. Life is to be lived, words are to be spoken, and activities are to be done with serious consideration of the authority and responsibility that is demanded by “in the name of Jesus Christ.