When we explore the question of what name Jesus used to call God, we dive into a profound intersection of theology, linguistics, and cultural history. Throughout the New Testament, Jesus addresses God with terms that reflect intimacy, reverence, and divine authority.
Understanding these names reveals not only the nature of Jesus’ relationship with the Father but also sheds light on the early Christian understanding of God’s identity. The names Jesus used were not arbitrary; they carried deep meaning, rooted in Jewish tradition and the language of the time.
This exploration invites us to consider how Jesus communicated with God, how He revealed God’s character, and what implications these names hold for believers today.
By examining the original languages, biblical contexts, and theological interpretations, we can appreciate the significance behind the names Jesus used. These names are windows into the divine mystery and provide a framework for our own spiritual connection with God.
Whether through the tender “Abba” or the majestic “Lord,” the way Jesus names God invites us into a relationship marked by both awe and closeness. Let’s embark on this journey to uncover the names Jesus called God and understand their rich significance.
The Meaning of “Abba”: The Father’s Intimate Name
One of the most striking names Jesus used to address God is “Abba”, an Aramaic term often translated as “Father.” This word carries a deep sense of intimacy and affection, akin to “Dad” or “Papa.” It reveals a personal and close relationship between Jesus and God, emphasizing trust and love.
“Abba” appears several times in the New Testament, notably in the Gospels and the letters of Paul. It is not just a formal title but a heartfelt expression of dependence and connection.
In a cultural context, “Abba” was used by children and adults alike to express closeness to their father, highlighting the familial bond.
Jesus’ use of “Abba” sets a new standard for how believers can approach God—as a loving Father, accessible and caring. This contrasts with the more distant or formal titles common in religious traditions of the time.
“And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” – Mark 14:36
Why “Abba” Matters
- Shows Jesus’ unique relationship with God as His Son
- Invites believers to approach God with confidence and love
- Reflects Jewish cultural understanding of God as Father
- Emphasizes emotional closeness rather than distant reverence
This intimate term reveals much about the nature of divine-human relationship Jesus modeled. It is a name rooted in trust, love, and submission, showing us how to connect with God on a personal level.
The Title “Lord” and Its Divine Authority
Jesus also frequently referred to God as “Lord”, a title loaded with authority and respect. In the Jewish context, “Lord” (Greek: Kyrios) was used to translate the divine name YHWH, denoting God’s supreme sovereignty.
Calling God “Lord” affirms His role as ruler over all creation. It highlights His power, majesty, and the rightful position as the one to be obeyed and worshiped.
Jesus’ use of this name connects with the Old Testament tradition while affirming God’s active reign in the world.
In many instances, Jesus also refers to God as “Lord” in prayer and teaching, reinforcing His dependence on God’s authority and His submission to divine will.
| Title | Meaning | Biblical Context |
| Lord (Kyrios) | Master, ruler, divine authority | Used to denote God’s sovereignty, often replacing YHWH |
| Abba | Father, intimate parental figure | Expresses close personal relationship |
| God (Theos) | Divine being, creator | General term for deity |
The Lordship of God in Jesus’ Teachings
Jesus’ references to God as Lord underscore His recognition of God’s ultimate authority. It also invites us to understand that true discipleship involves submitting to God’s lordship in our lives.
This name bridges the personal and the majestic, reminding us of God’s power and care.
God as “Theos”: The Divine Being
The Greek term “Theos” is often used in the New Testament to refer to God. It is the general word for deity or divine being and was the common term in the Hellenistic world.
Jesus used “Theos” when speaking about God in broader theological contexts, emphasizing God’s nature as the supreme, eternal, and all-powerful being. This name highlights God’s transcendence, distinct from creation yet intimately involved.
While “Theos” is a more formal and philosophical term, it complements the personal nature of “Abba” and the authoritative “Lord.” Together, these names provide a multifaceted understanding of God’s identity.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son…” – John 3:16
“Theos” in Early Christian Thought
- Emphasizes God’s divinity and supremacy
- Used by Jesus and apostles in teaching and prayer
- Connects Jewish monotheism with Greek philosophical ideas
- Integral to understanding God’s universal nature
By using “Theos,” Jesus spoke to diverse audiences, bridging cultural gaps and affirming the singular divine nature of God.
Jesus’ Use of “Father” in the Synoptic Gospels
In the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—Jesus frequently addresses God simply as “Father”. This term encapsulates both authority and affection, balancing reverence with intimacy.
This usage reflects Jesus’ teaching that God is not a distant or impersonal force but a caring Father who watches over His children. It also emphasizes the familial relationship Jesus invites believers to enter.
Jesus’ prayers often begin with “Father,” a practice that encourages followers to approach God with confidence and humility. This model of prayer shaped Christian spirituality profoundly.
Examples of “Father” in Jesus’ Prayer Life
- The Lord’s Prayer begins with “Our Father” (Matthew 6:9)
- Jesus prays to the Father in Gethsemane (Mark 14:36)
- He teaches reliance on the Father’s will and provision
Using “Father” made God accessible and relational, underscoring the personal nature of divine care and guidance.
The Significance of “Yahweh” and Jesus’ Respect for the Divine Name
Though Jesus spoke primarily in Aramaic and Greek, the Hebrew name for God, “Yahweh”, remained central to Jewish worship. Jesus demonstrated respect for this sacred name, often substituting titles like “Lord” in spoken discourse.
“Yahweh” is the personal name revealed to Moses, meaning “I Am Who I Am” (Exodus 3:14). It signifies God’s eternal self-existence and unchanging nature.
Jesus’ teachings reflect deep reverence for Yahweh, acknowledging God’s holiness and covenant relationship with Israel.
While “Yahweh” is not explicitly vocalized in the New Testament due to Jewish customs, its presence underpins Jesus’ understanding of God’s identity.
“Before Abraham was, I am.” – John 8:58
Respecting the Divine Name
- Jewish tradition avoided pronouncing Yahweh aloud
- Jesus referred to God as “Lord” or “Father” to honor this custom
- “I am” statements in John echo God’s self-identification
- Reflects continuity between Old and New Testament revelations
This careful handling of God’s name highlights the sacredness and mystery Jesus upheld in His teachings.
Jesus’ Prayerful Relationship: Calling God “Abba” in the Garden of Gethsemane
One of the most poignant moments in the New Testament is when Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane using the name “Abba”. This moment captures the tension between His divine mission and human vulnerability.
Despite the overwhelming suffering He anticipates, Jesus addresses God with intimate trust, demonstrating the power of calling God “Abba” even in times of distress. It reveals His submission to the Father’s will while maintaining a personal connection.
This example invites believers to bring their deepest fears and hopes before God with honesty and faith.
“Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” – Mark 14:36
Lessons from Jesus’ Prayer
- Shows the balance of intimacy and submission in prayer
- Encourages believers to trust God even in hardship
- Demonstrates Jesus’ reliance on God’s strength
- Models authentic communication with God
Jesus’ use of “Abba” here is a powerful reminder of the personal and sovereign nature of God in moments of trial.
Theological Implications of the Names Jesus Used for God
The variety of names Jesus used to call God reflects a complex and rich theology. Each name reveals different facets of God’s nature—intimate Father, sovereign Lord, eternal Theos, and holy Yahweh.
This diversity of names challenges us to embrace a multidimensional view of God that includes both transcendence and immanence. It inspires a relationship that is respectful yet deeply personal.
Furthermore, Jesus’ naming of God invites us into a faith that is both grounded in tradition and alive with new understanding. It bridges the gap between divine majesty and human accessibility.
| Name | Meaning | Significance |
| Abba | Father (intimate) | Personal relationship, love, trust |
| Lord (Kyrios) | Master, Sovereign | Authority, power, worship |
| Theos | God, Divine Being | Transcendence, divinity |
| Yahweh | I Am, Eternal One | Holy name, covenant identity |
Applying These Names Today
Understanding these names enriches our prayer life and faith experience. We are invited to call God “Abba” with the trust of a child, acknowledge His lordship in our daily choices, and honor His eternal nature in worship.
These names shape how we see God and how we live out our spirituality.
For those curious about the meaning of biblical names and their significance, exploring related articles such as What Does the Name Cole Mean in the Bible? Explained or what does the name Beryl mean in the Bible?
explained can provide further insight into the power of names in faith.
Conclusion: Embracing the Names Jesus Used for God
The names Jesus used to call God reveal a profound and multifaceted relationship between the divine and humanity. From the tender “Abba” to the majestic “Lord,” these names invite us into a deeper understanding of God’s character.
They show us a God who is both approachable and sovereign, loving and powerful.
By recognizing the significance of these names, we can enrich our own spiritual journey. We learn to approach God with the confidence of a child, the reverence of a worshiper, and the awe of one who encounters the eternal.
Jesus’ use of these names bridges ancient traditions and contemporary faith, offering timeless guidance for how we relate to God.
As we reflect on the names Jesus called God, we are reminded that our relationship with the divine is personal, dynamic, and rooted in love. This understanding encourages us to live with faith, hope, and a renewed sense of connection to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
For those interested in exploring more about the significance of names, whether biblical or cultural, you might find fascinating insights in articles like How to Name a Story: Creative Tips for Perfect Titles and Why Is It Important To Use A Client’s Name.
These resources deepen appreciation for the power and meaning behind names in various contexts.
