♦(A) The prophetic role of YESU's name in Bible
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A Name above all names
(Philippians 2:9) Therefore God highly exalted him and gave him a name that is above every name,
(Acts 4:12) And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
The name YESU reflects the purity and truth prophesied in (Zephaniah 3:9):
"Then I will give to all nations pure lips (languages), that they may call on the name of God and serve Him with one accord."
For then I will change to the peoples a lip clear... or
At that time I will restore the speech of the peoples to a pure speech...
Compare: I am a man of unclean lips. a man - peoples, unclean - pure/clear, lip in Hebrew also means speech.
Why YESU?
YESU is closer to the original name of the Savior during His ministry on earth.
It echoes the call to restore the divine name, avoiding the alteration of its meaning through translation.
The meaning of Holy Name in the last days
In Revelation we see the importance of honoring God's name.
Those who call on God's true name are set apart as His faithful people. By accepting YESU, we stand with the saints who will inherit the Kingdom of God:
(Revelation 14:12) This is the patience of the saints; they keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus [YESU].
(Revelation 14:1) And I looked, and behold, the Lamb stood on Mount Zion, and with him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having his name and the name of his Father written on their foreheads.
Other translation: ...having the name of the Father of Him having been written on the foreheads of them. and ...having the name of his Father written on their foreheads. Everyone has his father's name written on their foreheads!
(John 17:11) From now on, I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I come to you. Holy Father! Please keep those you have given me in your name, so that they may be one like us.
Other trasnlation: Holy Father, keep through Your own name those whom You have given Me or Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your own name--the name You gave Me!
YESU is the manifestation of YHWH in the flesh. It is also used to reveal His redemptive name to the world.
Key Takeaway
Calling on the name of YESU is a sign of faith and obedience and is an important step in preparing oneself for the return of the Savior.
Most people take it for granted that the name of the LORD Jesus [YESU] is translated differently in various languages! Is it really true?
If you think about it more carefully, when the gospel is spread from Judea to the ends of the earth, should the holy name of the Savior Jesus [YESU] be spread in its original pronunciation?
So the pronunciation of various languages today is different, isn't it the destruction of Satan? It takes advantage of mankind's bad nature of neglecting the true God's commandments and even deliberately violating them, and makes major changes!
Why not change the names of ordinary people like Abraham, Lincoln, and Einstein?
♦(B) Understanding the Sabbath in Today's World
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What is the Sabbath?
The Sabbath is not just a day of rest, but a sacred command established by God when He created the world. It is a sign of His covenant with His people, revealing those who honor Him through obedience.
(Genesis 2:3) So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation. (ESV)
Why is the Sabbath still important?
Many Christians believe that the Sabbath belongs to Old Testament law, but the Bible makes its eternal importance clear. The LORD Jesus [YESU] kept the Sabbath Himself and declared it to be a blessing to mankind:
(Mark 2:27,28) And he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath." (ESV)
(Matthew 12:8) For the Son of Man is LORD of the Sabbath. (ESV)
(Luke 4:16) Jesus [YESU] came to Nazareth, where he grew up. On the Sabbath, according to his usual custom, he went into the synagogue and stood up to read from the Bible.
(Luke 23:56) So they returned and prepared spices and ointments. They rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.
(Acts 17:2) Paul went in as was his custom, and for three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures
The meaning and practice of the Sabbath are often misunderstood or even ignored. Some Christians believe it is no longer important, or are bound by false traditions (such as the Jewish custom of sundown on Friday to sundown on Saturday), wrong teachings leading many to be unwilling to obey this commandment.
How to Keep the Sabbath Today
Preparation: Plan your work week ahead of time to ensure that Shabbat is free of busy activities.
Rest: Focus on physical, mental and spiritual rest.
Worship: Spend time in prayer, reading the Bible, and fellowship with other believers.
Key Takeaway
The Sabbath is not a burden, but a gift - a sacred day to reconnect with God and realign life priorities.
Commemorate the grace of creation and redemption under grace and keep it in the hope of eternal rest in the afterlife. You can do holy work, do good deeds, see a doctor, heal, eat and drink. It is to enjoy rest in obedience.
♦(C) Biblical basis for keeping commandments
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God's Law: The Foundation of Faith
Throughout the Bible, God's commandments are described as teachings that are eternal, unchanging, and vital to His people. Paul reminds us in (1 Corinthians 7:19):
"Being circumcised is nothing, and being uncircumcised is nothing, as long as you keep the commandments of God."
Keeping God's Commandments: The Call to the Third and Fourth Commandments
The Structure of the Ten Commandments and the Challenges of the Modern Believer
The Ten Commandments are divided into two parts:
The first four commandments involve worship and loyalty to God:
1. There shall be no other gods.
2. Do not make idols and worship them.
3. Do not take God's name in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.
The last six commandments deal with human conduct, mind and morality: Honor your father and your mother, You Shall Not Murder, You Shall Not Commit Adultery, You Shall Not Steal, You Shall Not Bear False Witness and You Shall Not Covet.
The summary of the law is "love". To love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself. This is to obey the Ten Commandments from the heart! The First Love (Revelation 2:4)(ASV) is toward GOD!
The last six commandments are generally accepted and observed by human society because of their universal morality, and true Christians are no exception. Christians generally believe that the first and second commandments cannot be easily violated. However, the real challenge comes with the third and fourth commandments:
The third commandment: Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
Many Christians lack knowledge of God's holy name and even use wrong names (such as Jehovah) or forms to express their address to God, which essentially violates the requirements of the third commandment. Properly knowing and honoring God's name (such as using [YESU] rather than a man-made name) is key to obeying this commandment.
Be aware: The LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
Honoring God's name is not just about avoiding misuse, it is also about using His true name [YESU] reverently.
The Fourth Commandment: Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
The Sabbath is a sign of obedience and worship that showcases God's faithful people.
(Matthew 19:17b) If you want to enter eternal life, you must keep the commandments.
Commandments in Revelation
The commandments are more than just Old Testament laws; they are central to the life of an end-time believer:
(Rev 12:17) And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. (KJV)
(Rev 11:19) And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail. (KJV)
(Rev 14:12) Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. (KJV)
Restore full obedience to God's commandments
The Bible teaches us that obeying God's commandments is a manifestation of believers' love for God and proof of knowing God:
(1 John 5:3) If we love God, let us keep His commandments; His commandments are not burdensome.
(1 John 2:3-4) And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
(Mark 12:30) You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.
True believers should re-understand and practice these two commandments that are often ignored:
Honor God's name: Worship Him by using the correct name and avoiding misuse or use an incorrect name.
Observe the seventh-day Sabbath: Understand the teachings on the Sabbath in the Bible, break away from traditional misunderstandings, and focus on building a relationship with God.
Key Takeaway
Obeying God's commandments is not legalism but an expression of love and faith. By obeying His Word, we demonstrate our commitment to YESU and prepare ourselves for eternal life.
(1 Sam 15:22b) Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.
To listen and obey is the key! Don't make the same mistake Adam and Eve made!
♦(D) The Origin of Satan
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Satan was originally a beautiful and radiant cherub who walked in God's Garden of Eden. However, his pride led him to aspire to be equal with God, resulting in his expulsion and fall into evil.
(Ezekiel 28:13-14) You were in Eden, the garden of God... You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you.
Human Choices and the Fall
God gave humanity the ability to choose, but the first humans chose disobedience by eating the forbidden fruit, gaining the knowledge of good and evil. Since then, humanity faces the dilemma: follow their conscience or
yield to sin?
(Genesis 3:6) When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye... she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
Satan's Work
Satan deceives humanity through idols, sorcery, lies, and even misusing religious freedom to propagate false teachings. True righteousness is not only about good deeds but also about knowing the Creator and accepting
Jesus [YESU] Christ as the Savior.
The Solution
Salvation comes only through the blood of Jesus [YESU] Christ and being born again of water and the Spirit.
(John 3:5) Jesus [YESU] answered, "Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit."
Conclusion
Though humanity is deceived by Satan in ignorance - Do not know the truth: YESU Christ is true God, His Holy Name and Holy Day, God provides the opportunity for repentance. Those who acknowledge Jesus [YESU] Christ
as LORD and born of water and the Spirit, also obey all God's commandments will be saved and receive eternal life.
♦(E) The pronunciation of Jesus' name
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When discussing the pronunciation of Jesus' name, historical linguistics provides valuable insight into how the name rendered in different languages, including Aramaic, Greek, and Latin. It also highlights the differences between spoken and written forms during ancient times.
The writing and pronunciation of Jesus' name in three languages were at the same time -
Be aware: In the same era, not across generations!
(John 19:20) Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek.
1. Aramaic
Yoshua means "The LORD GOD saves" in Hebrew. LORD Jesus also means "The LORD GOD saves" in Aramaic.
Aramaic is different from the Hebrew language of centuries ago.
The Aramaic name of the LORD Jesus is different from the Hebrew name of Yoshua. Jesus' name should have been called "YESU" in Aramaic, same as in Greek and Latin.
2. Greek (Iēsous)
The Greek name of LORD Jesus is Iēsous (Ἰησοῦς). In Greek, the final "s" was added as a grammatical marker to indicate the nominative case, as required by Greek syntax.
However, in spoken language, such grammatical markers were dropped, particularly in direct address, making "YESU" a pronunciation in everyday use.
3. Latin (Iesus)
The Latin form Iesus retained much of the Greek structure but was pronounced closer to "YESU" in early Latin. Over time, as Latin evolved and influenced European languages, the pronunciation shifted, eventually becoming "Jesus" in English, with a hard "J" sound.
Aramaic Influence and Daily Use
Jesus and His disciples primarily spoke Aramaic, where names ending in "a" often dropped the final vowel sound in speech. This suggests that in the daily interactions of His time, the name "YESU" was commonly used, same as in Latin and Greek, aligning with Aramaic pronunciation norms.
Greek Grammar vs. Everyday Speech
In Greek, the written form Iēsous included the final "s" for grammatical reasons, but it is unlikely that this was consistently pronounced in casual conversations. For example, when the disciples addressed Jesus directly, they likely used "YESU," reflecting a simplified spoken form.
Cultural Influence on Name Evolution
The transformation of Jesus' name across languages reflects cultural adaptation but does not change the core meaning: "God saves." However, in modern languages, the pronunciation has often diverged significantly from the original. For instance, while Hebrew and Aramaic forms like "Yeshua" and "YESU" have been preserved in some languages, others, such as English, have developed pronunciations like "Jesus" that are far removed from the original.
The Importance of Restoring the Name "YESU"
The story in (Judges 12:6), where tens of thousands of Ephraimites were killed because they could not pronounce "Shibboleth" correctly, instead they pronounced "Sibboleth", demonstrates how pronunciation was used to confirm identity and allegiance. It also reminds us of the significant consequences that can arise from seemingly minor linguistic differences.
However, this story also raises a question of fairness. Those who could not pronounce "Shibboleth" were judged harshly, not for their character, but for their linguistic limitations. Those who could pronounce SH killed people who only pronounced S.
From "Yeshu" to "YESU"
In modern Israel, "Yeshu" has become the common way to refer to Jesus. However, this shortened form strips away much of the sacred meaning inherent in the original name. The name YESU (from the Hebrew Yeshua and Greek Iēsous) means "The LORD Saves," encapsulating the profound message of salvation.
Historically, the name "YESU" or "Yeshua" was faithfully pronounced and preserved by the apostles as they spread the Gospel. As the message reached different cultures and languages, some adaptations naturally occurred. Over time, however, many of these changes reflected a neglect of the sacredness of the name, resulting in significant alterations. The use of "Yeshu" is one such example, and it is not only a linguistic simplification but also a loss of theological depth.
The Call for Restoration and Fairness
Just as we look back with compassion on the Ephraimites in Judges 12, who suffered due to their inability to pronounce "Shibboleth," we should reconsider the modern insistence on using "Yeshu." Restoring the correct name, YESU, honors both the sacred identity and the divine meaning behind the name. It is a matter of reverence and fairness to correct this deviation.
This restoration aligns with the prophecy in (Zephaniah 3:9):
"For then I will change the speech of the peoples to a pure speech, that all of them may call on the name of the LORD and serve Him with one accord."
Before the LORD comes again, peoples will call on His holy name in a clear and pure language. When the world regains respect and correct pronunciation of the sacred name, it is also the time for all people to unite in worshiping the true God.
The Significance of Pronunciation in Divine Names
Throughout the Bible, names carry profound meaning and purpose. LORD GOD changed Abram to Abraham and Sarai to Sarah, each alteration reflecting a new spiritual identity. The name YESU is no different. It is a unique, divine name that conveys GOD's plan of salvation.
Unlike ordinary words that may vary in pronunciation across languages, the sacred name YESU should not be subject to such changes. It is a name to be preserved, as it represents the divine identity and mission of salvation. The shift from "YESU" to "Yeshu" or other forms should not be seen as permissible but as a deviation that calls for correction.
Conclusion and Contemporary Relevance
Historically, it is most likely that Jesus' name was pronounced [YESU] in everyday use rather than the formal Greek "Iēsous." This reflects natural linguistic tendencies to simplify names in spoken language.
Today, while different languages have adapted the pronunciation of His name, restoring "YESU" may align more closely with historical and linguistic evidence. It also honors the sacred nature of the name, preserving its original form and meaning as a testament to faith and respect.
♦(F) The distinctiveness of IESU (or YESU) from Yoshua and its implications
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1. Linguistic and Cultural Context
♦ Aramaic as Jesus’ Native Language: During Jesus’ earthly ministry, Aramaic was the primary spoken language in Judea. His name would have been rendered naturally in Aramaic as YESU or a similar pronunciation. This pronunciation comes directly from the way his name is expressed in Greek (Ἰησοῦς/Iēsous) and Latin (IESU), reflecting the languages of His time rather than reverting to the Hebrew Yoshua hundreds years ago.
♦ The different languages on the cross: According to (John 19:19-20), the inscription on the cross was written in Latin, Greek, and Aramaic: "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews." This demonstrates that the name "IESU" was used to reflect the people’s understanding of His identity at the time. These three languages not only emphasized that His name should be expressed consistently or very similarly across languages (at least two-thirds as YESU), but also reflected the understanding of His name and identity at that time, rather than using the Hebrew name "Yoshua" from centuries earlier.
2. Difference Between IESU and Yoshua
♦ Meaning vs. Form: Yoshua (Joshua) and IESU (Jesus) have same meanings ("the LORD GOD is salvation"), they are very different in form and phonetics. Jesus is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) in Greek, IESU in Latin, and transliterated as YESU. Iosua is Latin for Yoshua.
♦ Historical Context: By the first century, names often took localized forms due to the realities of cross-linguistic and cultural interactions. The name of YESU (IESU) was not a translation of "Yoshua," but an Aramaic name shaped by the language and cultural context of His time. Claiming that Jesus’ name is equivalent to "Yoshua" overlooks these linguistic developments and the unique identity conveyed by His name.
3. Pronunciation Consistency Across Three Languages
♦ The pronunciation of "IESU" across Greek, Latin, and Aramaic aligns closely with the modern YESU in certain languages, including Chinese. This consistency shows that His name was adapted for phonetic coherence in the languages of the New Testament era, preserving its distinct pronunciation.
♦ Hebrew scholars may argue for Yoshua, but the New Testament’s reliance on Greek manuscripts prioritizes Iēsous (Ἰησοῦς). Thus, the Latin (Roman official language) and Greek renderings hold greater authority for understanding His name within the context of the Gospel.
4. Theological Implications
♦ Identity Beyond a Hebrew Framework: Jesus’ mission was not confined to the Jewish people but extended to all nations (Matthew 28:19). His name’s rendering in Latin, Greek, and Aramaic during His time reflects His universal role as Savior for all humanity. A Hebrew-centric view (using Yoshua) contradicts the Gospel’s inclusivity.
♦ Preservation of GOD’s Name: The Third Commandment warns against misuse or alteration of GOD’s name. The rendering of Jesus’ name as IESU in ancient texts reflects a conscious effort to respect its form in contemporary languages. Any modern claim equating IESU with Yoshua risks imposing human traditions that obscure its original pronunciation.
5. Historical and Scriptural Evidence
♦ Early English Bibles: The use of "IESU" in early English translations, like the Coverdale Bible (1535), demonstrates that the translators maintained fidelity to the Latin and Greek texts rather than reverting
to Hebrew Yoshua. This historical continuity supports the arhument
that IESU was understood as the correct form in English for centuries.
♦ The Role of Greek Texts: The Greek New Testament (written under divine inspiration) consistently uses Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous), which corresponds directly to IESU. Nowhere does the New Testament revert to Yoshua, reinforcing that IESU (or YESU) is the name given to Jesus in His salvific role.
6. Application Today
♦ Purification of Speech (Zephaniah 3:9): As Bible highlights, the restoration of a "pure language" is essential for worshiping GOD correctly. The modern pronunciation of Jesus in English and similar linguistic deviations may detract from the original IESU/YESU. Restoring this name aligns with the spirit of worshiping GOD with purified lips.
♦ Third Commandment Compliance: Using the historically accurate name IESU prevents mispronunciation and misunderstanding that could risk violating the Third Commandment. Encouraging IESU or YESU restores reverence to His holy name and avoids errors rooted in human tradition.
7. Closing Points:
♦ This argument strongly reinforces the need to distinguish IESU from Yoshua while acknowledging their shared meaning. This distinction emphasizes Jesus’ unique identity and mission as GOD incarnate in human history.
♦ By advocating for IESU or YESU in worship and teaching, we are promoting the restoration of linguistic and theological accuracy. This effort honors GOD’s name and aligns with biblical principles.
♦(G) Homosexuality
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The Lord Jesus ［YESU］said, "Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of My Father in heaven." He also said, "If you want to enter eternal life, keep the commandments."
Isn’t the Father’s most important will the Ten Commandments, which He wrote with His finger (Exodus 31:18)?
The Lord Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and the second is like it: to love your neighbor as yourself. The essence of loving God and loving others is to obey the Ten Commandments!
Yet today, many preachers in the Christian world claim to preach the "pure Gospel," but they blatantly violate the Third and Fourth Commandments. They use the mistranslated name "Jehovah" to refer to God, change the English name of the Lord Jesus from IESU [YESU] to [Jesus], and, while acknowledging that the Lord rose on the first day (Sunday), they use the celebration of
His resurrection as an excuse to abolish the Father’s Fourth Commandment, the Sabbath day (Saturday). Some even incorrectly advocate that the Sabbath is from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset!
There are those who harshly criticize homosexuality. While we acknowledge that homosexuality is a sin detested by God and a defilement of one’s own body, taking the Lord’s name in vain, of which God says, "He will not hold them guiltless," is no less a grievous sin. Isn’t this an even greater offense? Homosexuality may be inborn or caused by Satan’s harm, but those who knowingly violate the commandments—aren’t their sins even more severe?
(ESV)
(Romans 3:23) 'for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, '
(Galatians 3:22) But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
(1 Timothy 1:15) The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.
(Romans 6:2-5) By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.
(John 19:30) When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, "It is finished," and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
(ESV)
All sinners need to repent and receive the proper water baptism (in the likeness of His death - bow head and full immersion into running water) in the holy name of the Lord Jesus Christ, which bears the testimony of water, blood, and the Holy Spirit.
They must also accept the foot-washing ceremony performed by the Lord’s servants in His name, to have a part with the Lord. Furthermore, they must receive the Holy Spirit and speak in tongues, partake the Holy Communion to gain eternal life and resurrection on the last day, and observe the Sabbath day and all commandments.
Only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of heaven!
♦(H) To defend the position that the holy name of the Lord Yesu should maintain consistent pronunciation and that
God’s commandments must be observed
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1. The Holiness and Consistency of the Holy Name
(1) The Uniqueness and Inviolability of the Holy Name:
The Bible repeatedly emphasizes that God’s name is holy and exalted above every name:
"Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus (Yesu) every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth."
(Philippians 2:9-10)
Since it is "the name above every name", it should not be altered or adapted casually due to cultural or linguistic differences. The holy name carries divine authority and sanctity, which distinguishes it from ordinary names. It is a sacred revelation, not a mere human designation.
(2) The Apostles Maintained the Original Pronunciation:
When the Lord Yesu commanded His disciples to preach the Gospel to all nations (Mark 16:15), they undoubtedly preserved the original pronunciation of His holy name. Regardless of linguistic barriers, the apostles upheld the sanctity of the name because it is not just a label but the very mark of salvation:
"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved."
(Acts 4:12)
Since "no other name" has been given, it implies that the apostles did not substitute or adapt the name when entering different cultures. The consistent pronunciation is evident, for example, in the Chinese transliteration "耶穌" (Yesu), which retains the original phonetics.
2. The Prophecy of Zephaniah 3:9: Restoration of a Pure Language
(1) The Bible Prophesies a Restoration of Pure Language:
Zephaniah 3:9 clearly states:
"For at that time I will change the speech of the peoples to a pure speech, so that all of them may call on the name of the LORD and serve Him with one accord."
(NRSV)
The terms "change" or "restore" emphasize the purification and unification of language. After the confusion of languages at Babel, God promises that in the last days, before the Lord’s return, there will be a restoration of a pure and clear language, enabling all nations to call upon the name of the Lord with one accord. This directly links the purity of language to the purity of God’s name.
(2) The End-Time Restoration:
This prophecy is not merely about language itself but about restoring pure worship and reverence for God’s name. It aligns with Revelation 14:6, which speaks of the eternal Gospel being preached to every nation, tribe, language, and people, emphasizing the unchanging truth that transcends human traditions.
3. Historical Evidence of Human Alteration of the Holy Name
(1) The Evolution of "Jesus" in English:
The modern English pronunciation "Jesus" is the result of human linguistic evolution, not divine instruction:
• Greek: Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) was a transliteration adapted to Greek phonetics, which could not fully preserve the original Aramaic sounds, particularly the guttural.
• Latin: Iesus followed the Greek form, retaining a pronunciation closer to the original.
• English: IESU remained in English Bibles until around 1628. The addition of "s" reflects Greek/Latin grammatical usage (nominative masculine ending). Over the next 200 years, the letters "I" and "J" became differentiated in usage, leading to the form "Jesus" with a new pronunciation.
This transformation occurred due to linguistic shifts rather than divine revelation. Since the name is given by God, it should be preserved in its original form with reverence, rather than altered through cultural adaptation or phonetic trends.
4. Paul’s Teachings and God’s Commandments
(1) Paul Never Abolished the Need to Keep the Sabbath:
Many misinterpret Paul’s letters, such as Romans 14 and Galatians, assuming he downplayed the importance of Sabbath observance. However, Paul himself regularly observed the Sabbath, as recorded in Acts:
"As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures."
(Acts 17:2; see also Acts 18:4)
Paul emphasized faith and grace but never nullified the commandments:
"Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commandments is what counts."
(1 Corinthians 7:19)
If Paul had explicitly taught that "not observing the Sabbath is for the Lord", it would be clear in Scripture. However, he never said this. The focus of his teaching was on internalizing the law through faith, not dismissing it.
5. Conclusion: The Necessity of Restoring the Holy Name and Keeping God’s Commandments
• The holy name YESU is divinely revealed and should be consistently preserved across all languages.
• Zephaniah 3:9 prophesies a restoration of pure language, enabling all nations to call upon the Lord’s name with unity and clarity.
• Historical alterations to the name, such as the shift to "Jesus" in English, are human traditions, not ordained by God.
• Neither the Lord Yesu nor Paul taught that God’s commandments, including the Sabbath, could be disregarded.
God’s word is unchanging, transcending cultures, languages, and human traditions. We are called to uphold the purity of His name and the truth of His commandments with reverence and faithfulness.
♦(I) Love and Truth
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1. Speaking the Truth in Love Is Not Dividing the Church
"Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?" (Galatians 4:16)
"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head, that is, Christ." (Ephesians 4:15)
Standing for the truth is not what causes division in the church. In fact, it is the absence of truth that creates confusion. True unity is not based on compromise but on the foundation of God’s word. Jesus prayed:
"That all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us so that the world may believe that You have sent Me." (John 17:21)
This unity is centered on Christ and His truth, not on human traditions. If we avoid standing for the truth just to maintain superficial unity, we risk allowing falsehood to spread unchecked.
2. The Double Standard of Accepting Some Changes but Not Others
Some people acknowledge that changing the Sabbath (around 300 A.D.) was wrong but tolerate the alteration of the holy name in English about 200 years ago. This is clearly a double standard. Both God’s commandments and His name are holy and should not be tampered with.
• God’s Commandments Are Eternal:
"He provided redemption for His people; He ordained His covenant forever—holy and awesome is His name." (Psalm 111:9)
• God’s Name Must Be Revered:
"You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name." (Exodus 20:7)
If it’s wrong to change God’s holy day, it’s equally wrong to change His holy name. This is not legalism—it’s a matter of reverence for God.
3. Misunderstanding "The Letter Kills, but the Spirit Gives Life"
"For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (2 Corinthians 3:6)
This verse refers to the Old Covenant law without the Spirit, not to dismissing the importance of God’s commandments or His name. Paul wasn’t saying that God’s words are unimportant—he was addressing the legalistic misuse of the law for self-righteousness.
Jesus Himself said:
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." (Matthew 5:17)
If Jesus honored the law, how much more should we respect His name, which represents His authority and salvation?
4. Is God’s Name Just a "Label" or a Personal Revelation?
Some claim that as long as we believe in the Savior, how we pronounce His name doesn’t matter. However, the Bible teaches that God’s name represents His identity, authority, and salvation.
• "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)
• "Repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:47)
If the name doesn’t matter, why does Scripture repeatedly emphasize salvation being in His name? The name isn’t just a label—it’s sacred because God Himself revealed it for a purpose.
5. Is This "Legalistic" or an Expression of Reverence?
When people claim that insisting on pronouncing "YESU" correctly is legalistic, we can respond:
• Standing for Truth ≠ Legalism:
Legalism is trying to earn salvation through works. What we’re doing is honoring God’s revelation with reverence, not claiming that correct pronunciation earns salvation. Salvation is by grace through faith, but reverence for God’s name is an expression of that faith.
• It’s Not About Forcing, but Fulfilling Prophecy:
"For then I will restore to the peoples a pure language, that they all may call on the name of the LORD, to serve Him with one accord." (Zephaniah 3:9)
This isn’t about forcing people—it’s about believing that God’s prophecy will come true. Having faith in God’s promises is not extreme; it’s biblical.
6. Miracles Do Not Validate Error
Some argue, "We’ve seen miracles using the pronunciation ‘Jesus,’ so how can it be wrong?" Yes, miracles can happen because God looks at the heart, but miracles are not the measure of truth.
"Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name and in Your name drive out demons and in Your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from Me, you evildoers!’" (Matthew 7:22-23)
Miracles can happen even in imperfect situations, but that doesn’t mean every practice is correct. The ultimate standard is God’s Word, not human experiences.
7. Final Thoughts: Standing Firm in Truth with Love
We are not trying to argue for the sake of pride, nor are we condemning others. Our goal is to uphold the truth with love. When facing objections, remember to:
• Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)—don’t compromise truth to avoid conflict.
• Remain humble (Romans 12:3)—we don’t claim to be better, but we are responsible for the truth God has revealed.
• Trust in God’s promises (Zephaniah 3:9)—the restoration of pure language is God’s work, not ours to force.
Finally, let’s remember:
"For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." (1 Corinthians 14:33)
We stand firm in truth, maintain peace in our hearts, and let God’s Word be the foundation of our faith and actions.
♦(J) Church Divisions
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1. The Definition of the Church: External vs. Spiritual
(1) Broad and Narrow Understanding of the Church:
• Broadly speaking, the church refers to all who profess faith in Jesus Christ, including Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and various Protestant denominations, none-denominations.
• Narrowly speaking, the true church consists of those redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus Christ, as Scripture states:
"Be shepherds of the church of God, which He bought with His own blood." (Acts 20:28)
This means not everyone who claims to be a Christian or belongs to a denomination is part of the true church. The true church is not merely an external organization but a spiritual reality—a community of believers who have truly repented, accepted salvation, and live in obedience to God’s Word.
2. Church Divisions: External Reality vs. Spiritual Truth
(1) External Division vs. Spiritual Unity:
Jesus prayed for the unity of His followers:
"That all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us so that the world may believe that You have sent Me." (John 17:21)
Today, the visible Christian world is fragmented into many denominations. This division is a result of human traditions and deviations from biblical truth, and it is not in line with Jesus’ will. While external division is unfortunate, spiritual division is far more serious—when people depart from the truth, they create false teachings and counterfeit versions of the church.
(2) Division Doesn’t Mean the True Church Is Lost:
Though outwardly divided, God has always preserved His true remnant in every generation. The true church remains unified through the Holy Spirit and the truth, even if scattered across different nations and groups. As Paul said:
"There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called." (Ephesians 4:4)
3. Jesus’ Teaching on the Narrow Gate and the Chosen Few
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7:13-14)
"For many are invited, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14)
Jesus was highlighting the personal responsibility of each believer to seek salvation through the narrow gate, which requires faith, repentance, and obedience. However, this doesn’t mean we should ignore the church’s unity or the importance of preserving the truth.
• The narrow gate refers to personal faith and commitment to Christ.
• Church unity reflects the body of Christ, testifying to the world about God’s truth.
The true church should both uphold biblical truth and strive for unity. Unity is not about compromising truth but being united in the truth.
4. The Balance Between Truth and Unity
(1) Unity Must Be Founded on Truth:
• "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:3)
• "I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them." (Romans 16:17)
Unity cannot come at the cost of compromising biblical truth. True unity is built on God’s Word and the work of the Holy Spirit. If a teaching contradicts Scripture, no matter how large or influential the group, it is not truly part of Christ’s body.
(2) We Are Not Seeking Division, but We Cannot Tolerate Falsehood:
Paul publicly confronted Peter (Galatians 2:11-14), not because he didn’t love Peter, but because truth matters more than personal relationships. Likewise, when the church deviates from biblical teaching, speaking the truth is not about causing division—it’s about restoring the church to its foundation in Christ.
5. The Church’s Mission and the Believer’s Responsibility
• Hold Fast to the Truth, Build in Love:
"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head, that is, Christ." (Ephesians 4:15)
We must stand firm in the truth, not to argue or condemn, but to help others come to know God more deeply.
• Stay Alert, Avoid Compromise:
"For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear." (2 Timothy 4:3)
Many people prefer comforting words, neglecting the call to repentance and truth. This is exactly why we must remain vigilant.
• Don’t Fear Being Misunderstood—Be Faithful to God:
"Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ." (Galatians 1:10)
When we stand for the truth, we might be misunderstood or even accused of "dividing the church." But what matters most is whether we are faithful to God’s Word, not the approval of people.
✅ Conclusion
• The visible division of the church does not mean the true church is lost; the true church remains unified in the truth.
• While entering the narrow gate is a personal decision, the church, as the body of Christ, must pursue unity rooted in biblical truth.
• Speaking the truth is not causing division; compromising truth for the sake of false unity is the real danger.
May we stand firm in the truth with love, faithfully serving the Lord as His people, and reflecting the beauty of both truth and unity in Christ.
♦(K) God is Spirit
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(John 4:24) God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. (ESV)
(Revelation 2:7a) He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. (ESV)