THE POWER OF GOD’S NAMES by Tony Evans

Resource Description

This book of sermons on the names of God by well-known Dallas pastor, Tony Evans, reminds me of books of sermons by another famous Dallas Seminary graduate, Chuck Swindoll.  Evans’ and Swindoll’s sermons are biblically based, clear, and practical. They are sprinkled with interesting everyday illustrations that make them easy to listen to and easy to apply to everyday living. Their sermons are also Gospel centered. Evans and Swindoll often bring their hearers back to Jesus who is the answer to life’s ultimate need.

Evans believes that the names of God are more than nomenclature. They represent reputation and character.  He wants us to know what each name says about an aspect of God’s nature, an aspect that can directly apply to our lives as Christians.

He shows how most of the names of God arise out of a real lie situation in the life of a Bible character, like Abraham, David, and Gideon.

The table of contents clearly lays out the main truth of each sermon:

Introduction

1. The majesty of God’s names

Part 1: The Foundational Names of God

2. Elohim: The Strong Creator God
3. Jehovah: The Relational God
4. Adonai: The God Who Rules

Part 2: The Compound Names of God

5. Jehovah Jireh: The Lord Our Provider
6. Jehovah Tsaba: The Lord Our Warrior
7. Jehovah Shalom: The Lord Is Peace
8. Jehovah Rohi: The Lord My Shepherd
9. Jehovah Nissi: The Lord My Banner
10. Jehovah Mekoddishken: The Lord Who Sanctifies
11. Jehovah Rapha: The Lord Who Heals
12. Jehovah Tsidkenu: The Lord Our Righteous
13. El Elyon: The Most High God
14. El Shaddai: The Lord Almighty

Part 3: The Incarnational Name of God

15. Immanuel: God with Us

Appendix 1: Jesus from Genesis to Revelation

Appendix 2: An Extended List of the Names and Titles of God

The purpose of The Power of God’s Names is clear – near the beginning Evans simply states:

My hope is that through this book you will be introduced to God as if for the first time – through His names. You will come to know Him in ways you haven’t known previously. My hope isn’t merely that you will learn to pronounce some of his names, but rather that you will grasp the nature behind each one. When you identify and understand which name relates to your particular situation, you will be able to connect with God’s power to deliver you in that situation.

If you are looking for an exegetical and theological treatment of the names of God, this is not your book, but if you are looking for something inspirational on His names, this may be one of the best you will find.