What’s in a name…?

Open with Prayer: God, we thank you for this time together, for the technology that makes it possible, and the hearts that connect us. Be with us as we travel, join us in this journey, and help us see and hear you always. Amen.

Read: Mark 8:27-30

Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi (zeh-suh-REE-uh fil-LIH-pai); and on the way he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say that I am?’ And they answered him, ‘John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.’ He asked them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered him, ‘You are the Messiah.’ And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about him.

Ask: What does Messiah mean?
(In Greek, it’s translated as “Christ”.  Jesus was the Messiah the Jews had been waiting for, someone who was going to save them from evil and take them to heaven.) 

What does King mean to us?
(a male monarch of a major territorial unit; especially : one whose position is hereditary and who rules for life, a paramount chief.) 

How is Jesus like a king? 

What does Savior mean to us?
(one that saves from danger or destruction; one who brings salvation)

How does Jesus save people? 

What does Helper mean?
(one that helps)

How can Jesus help us?

What does Liberator mean?
(one who sets free)

How does Jesus free us?

 What other names can we use for Jesus?

 What do these names tell us about Jesus?

Do you know what your name means?
(Parents/Adults/Caregivers - if you haven’t told your kids where their name came from, this could be a fun time to tell that story)

What does your name tell people about you?

Finish with Prayer:
God, Thank you for sending Jesus to be with us, to help us, and to free us. God today we thank you for: (something or someone you’re grateful for)
God today we need your help with: (something hard or difficult you need to do)
God today please be with: (someone who may be sick, sad, or hurt)
We ask all this in Jesus’ name.
Amen