Names matter. Especially when it comes to how we understand God. In the Old Testament, one of the most significant names for God is YHWH, God's personal covenant name. Out of reverence, the Jewish people avoided saying this name out loud. Instead, they would say Adonai, which means "Lord" or "Master."
This substitution wasn't random. It reveals something important. Calling God Adonai emphasizes His authority. He is not just present; He is also in charge. He is the One who rules, leads, and deserves our obedience.
Now fast forward to Psalm 110:1, where David writes, "The Lord says to my Lord: 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.'" What's interesting here is that David uses two different "Lords." The first is YHWH, and the second is Adonai. So, in a sense, it reads: "YHWH says to my Adonai…" David, Israel's king, is calling someone other than YHWH lord! What does that mean?
Jesus answers that question in the New Testament. In passages like Matthew 22:41–46, Jesus points back to Psalm 110 and asks how David could call the Messiah "Lord" if the Messiah were just his descendant. The answer is clear: the Messiah isn't just a human king. He is divine.
Jesus is that Adonai. He is the one seated at the right hand of the Father. He shares in YHWH's authority. This means Jesus isn't just a good teacher or a moral example—He is Lord. And if He is Lord, that changes everything.
It means He has authority over our lives. It means His words carry weight. It means following Him isn't optional; it's the right response to who He is.
Understanding the connection between Adonai, YHWH, and Jesus helps us see the full picture of Scripture: God has always been revealing His plan, and Jesus stands at its center as both Savior and King.
This substitution wasn't random. It reveals something important. Calling God Adonai emphasizes His authority. He is not just present; He is also in charge. He is the One who rules, leads, and deserves our obedience.
Now fast forward to Psalm 110:1, where David writes, "The Lord says to my Lord: 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.'" What's interesting here is that David uses two different "Lords." The first is YHWH, and the second is Adonai. So, in a sense, it reads: "YHWH says to my Adonai…" David, Israel's king, is calling someone other than YHWH lord! What does that mean?
Jesus answers that question in the New Testament. In passages like Matthew 22:41–46, Jesus points back to Psalm 110 and asks how David could call the Messiah "Lord" if the Messiah were just his descendant. The answer is clear: the Messiah isn't just a human king. He is divine.
Jesus is that Adonai. He is the one seated at the right hand of the Father. He shares in YHWH's authority. This means Jesus isn't just a good teacher or a moral example—He is Lord. And if He is Lord, that changes everything.
It means He has authority over our lives. It means His words carry weight. It means following Him isn't optional; it's the right response to who He is.
Understanding the connection between Adonai, YHWH, and Jesus helps us see the full picture of Scripture: God has always been revealing His plan, and Jesus stands at its center as both Savior and King.
Parents,
Consider asking your student some of these questions to continue the conversation at home!
Consider asking your student some of these questions to continue the conversation at home!
- Why is it important that we understand that God has all authority?
- How do you feel knowing that God's plan was always to send Jesus to save us?
- What are some ways that you thank Adonai this week?
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