Spiritual Warfare – what’s in a name?

Ok, so this is really late in being posted, but better late than never.

In this lesson we took a look at the most popular names given to children by their parents. And discussed whether parents consider a name’s meaning before giving it to their child. We decided that most don’t anymore. Long ago the meaning of a name was a very important part of why that particular name was given. Here is the top ten names (male and female) given to babies in 2004. This is from the Social Security Administration’s website.

Next we looked at the meanings of everyone’s names in the class. Here they are lest you forget.

• Lauren = crowned one, crowned with laurel
• Sabrina = from the border lands
• Stacy = stable one
• Bryan = strong one, honorable
• Mindy = honey
• Dylan = son of the waves
• Patrick = noble one
• Rebecca = bound, tied
• Daniel = my judge is the lord
• Joseph = God will increase
• Michael = who is like God

Names are important in the Scripture as well. The name “Satan” is used 56 times and means to attack, accuse, or oppose. The name “devil” means to falsely accuse or slander. The name “Beelzebub” means ruler of demons. this is our enemy.

We also looked at some descriptions the Scripture gives to satan. He is described as a serpent who is full of crafty deception (see Genesis 3). He is also said to resemble an angel of light (see 2 Corinthians 11:14). Other descriptions given are: murderer, thief, and roaring lion. From all these we learn that a Christian’s spiritual character is high on his list of primary targets.

Our memory verse for this lesson is 1 Peter 5:8.

1Pet. 5:8   Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.