New Wine

In the body of Christ, discussions about whether we should call our Savior Jesus or Yeshua have become increasingly common. While it’s natural to want clarity and reverence when addressing the Messiah, these conversations can sometimes create confusion or unintended division. Let’s explore this topic with grace and understanding, focusing on the richness of His identity and the unity of His followers.

The Historical Name of Yeshua

Jesus’ original name in Hebrew is Yeshua (יֵשׁוּעַ), meaning “Yahweh saves” or “Salvation.” This name is deeply significant, directly connecting Him to God’s redemptive plan. In Matthew 1:21, the angel tells Joseph, “You shall call His name Jesus (Yeshua), for He will save His people from their sins.”

Yeshua was a common name in first-century Israel, but in His case, it uniquely fulfilled prophecies about the coming Messiah. This name tied Him to the promises of the Old Testament and highlighted His mission to bring salvation.

How “Jesus” Came to Be

The journey from Yeshua to Jesus is a fascinating example of how names evolve through language and culture. Here’s how it happened:

Greek Transliteration: The New Testament was written in Greek, which doesn’t have a “sh” sound. To approximate Yeshua, it was transliterated as Iēsous (Ἰησοῦς).
Latin Adaptation: When the Bible was translated into Latin, Iēsous became Iesus in the Vulgate.
English Evolution: Over time, as English developed, the letter “J” was introduced. By the 16th century, Iesusbecame Jesus.

This process is much like the “phone game” many of us played as children: as a message is passed along, small shifts occur. For centuries, English didn’t have a “sh” sound, making a direct transliteration of Yeshua impossible. Modern English, however, does include “sh,” allowing us to transliterate His name more accurately today if we choose.

The Power of His Name

Scripture is clear that the name of our Savior holds unparalleled power:

Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
Philippians 2:10-11: “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord.”

Whether you say Jesus or Yeshua, what truly matters is the person and authority behind the name. Countless lives have been transformed by calling on the name Jesus, demonstrating that God honors the heart of the worshiper, not just the pronunciation.

Why Learning Yeshua Matters

While it is perfectly acceptable to call Him Jesus, understanding and using His original name, Yeshua, can enrich your faith by:

Connecting to Prophecy: Yeshua ties directly to His fulfillment of Old Testament promises.
Honoring His Roots: It reminds us that Jesus was born into a Jewish context and lived within God’s covenant with Israel.
Deepening Reverence: Using His original name can inspire awe and respect for His identity and mission.

A Unifying Perspective

At the heart of this discussion is the call for unity. Romans 10:13 reminds us: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Whether you call Him Jesus or Yeshua, the most important thing is your relationship with Him and your faith in who He is.

Instead of allowing these discussions to create division, let’s celebrate the fact that we serve a Savior who knows our hearts and responds to all who seek Him in spirit and truth.

Conclusion: A Call to Understanding and Respect

It’s not about choosing sides; it’s about growing in understanding and reverence. Whether you call Him Jesus or Yeshua, take a moment to reflect on His mission, His sacrifice, and His love for you. Learning His original name can deepen your connection to Him, but rest assured—He knows your heart, and He honors the faith behind your words.