Today we take a look at the second principle of pray that is contained in Jesus’ model prayer, as taken from Matthew Chapter 6 from vs. 9.
“Hollowed be thy name” is the first of seven petitions expressed. Herein we acknowledge the awesome holiness and reverence of Almighty God. The phrase recognises the glory and majesty of God. The word “hallowed” means to be regarded or treated as holy.
The use of “name” in this context does not necessarily speak of the many titles for God or even the word “God”. But rather, reference is made of the fulness of the nature and character of His person. You see, the Jews would have understood the revealed name of God as being so sacred that it was not even to be mentioned in casual conversation. But what was missed in their religious duty and reverence to the “name of God” was identification with the person of God. So they honoured God with their lips but their heart was far from Him (Isaiah 29:13).
Further, when Christ was brought into the world He received a NAME that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow and Every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the Glory of the Father (Philippians 2:9). It is not just about the word “Jesus” per se, but the authority that proceeds from the fulness of the nature and character of His divine person. It is for this very reason that the Sons of Sceva in Acts 19:11-20 were beaten up by the evil spirits that they tried to cast out “by Jesus whom Paul preaches”. They had no personal encounter with the nature and character of Christ.
"Hallowed be Thy name” therefore is a personal declaration and identification with the Holiness of God. Glorifying God and hallowing His great name is the foundation of all prayer.