75 Names of Jesus and Their Meanings with Scripture
In the bible, names carried deep meaning, revealing character, purpose, and destiny. God often renamed individuals at pivotal moments: Abram to Abraham, Jacob to Israel, Simon to Peter.
The names and titles of Jesus throughout Scripture reveal His divine nature, earthly mission, and relationship with believers. From “Good Shepherd” to “Lion of Judah,” from “Bread of Life” to “King of Kings,” each name unveils a different aspect of our Savior.
Scripture contains more than 70 names for Jesus—some highlighting His divinity (“Son of God”), others His humanity (“Son of Man”). Some reveal His role as sacrifice (“Lamb of God”), others His authority (“Almighty God”). Together, they provide a complete picture of who Jesus is and what He means to us.
In this guide, we’ll explore these biblical names and titles, examining their meanings, scriptural contexts, and practical significance for daily Christian living. This journey through the names of Jesus will enrich your spiritual life and strengthen your relationship with Him.
Jesus’ Primary Names and Titles
Jesus
The most familiar name of our Lord carries profound significance, directly connecting to His mission of salvation for humanity.
Meaning: “Yahweh saves” or “salvation” (from Hebrew “Yeshua”)
Matthew 1:21: “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
Christ
This title identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of ancient prophecy and the divinely appointed, anointed one of God.
Meaning: “Anointed One” (Greek “Christos,” equivalent to Hebrew “Messiah”)
Matthew 16:16: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Messiah
The Hebrew equivalent of “Christ,” this title represents the culmination of centuries of Jewish hope and anticipation.
Meaning: “Anointed One” (Hebrew “Mashiach”)
John 1:41: “We have found the Messiah (which means Christ).”
Lord
When applied to Jesus, this title acknowledges His supreme authority, sovereignty, and rightful claim to our complete allegiance.
Meaning: Signifies His authority and divinity (Greek “Kyrios”)
Philippians 2:11: “Every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.”
Savior
This title emphasizes Jesus’ role as the one who rescues humanity from sin and death, offering eternal life.
Meaning: The one who delivers from sin and death
Luke 2:11: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
Jesus’s Titles Revealing His Divine Nature
Son of God
This profound title emphasizes Jesus’ unique and eternal relationship with God the Father, confirming His divine nature and origin as the only begotten son.
Meaning: Indicates His divine nature and relationship with God the Father
John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son.”
Immanuel (Emmanuel)
Prophesied by Isaiah and fulfilled in Christ, this name wonderfully captures the miracle of incarnation—God taking human form to dwell among us.
Meaning: “God with us”
Matthew 1:23: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.”
The Word (Logos)
This philosophical and theological title reveals Jesus as the perfect expression and communication of God’s nature, will, and message to humanity.
Meaning: Jesus as the divine expression or revelation of God
John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
Alpha and Omega
Drawing from the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, this title declares Jesus’ eternal nature and comprehensive authority over all creation. As the eternal God, Jesus embodies the beginning and the end, encompassing all things.
Meaning: The beginning and the end, encompassing all things
Revelation 22:13: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”
Holy One
Even demons recognized and feared Jesus’ perfect purity and divine authority, acknowledging Him as uniquely set apart from all creation. The Holy Spirit played a crucial role in Jesus’ divine mission, guiding and inspiring the prophets to share precise prophecies about His birth and mission.
Meaning: His sinless and divine nature
Mark 1:24: “I know who you are—the Holy One of God.”
Mighty God
Isaiah’s prophecy boldly proclaims the deity of the coming Messiah, identifying Him not merely as a great leader but as God Himself. As the Lord God Almighty, Jesus embodies ultimate authority and power.
Meaning: His divine power and deity
Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Image of the Invisible God
Paul declares that in Jesus, we can see and know the unseeable God, as Christ perfectly represents the Father’s nature and character.
Meaning: Jesus as the visible representation of the unseen God
Colossians 1:15: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.”
Brightness of His Glory
This poetic title from Hebrews portrays Jesus as the radiant manifestation of God’s glorious nature, making the Father known to us.
Meaning: Jesus as the radiance of God’s divine glory
Hebrews 1:3: “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature.”
The Amen
As “The Amen,” Jesus stands as the absolute confirmation and fulfillment of all God’s promises and purposes throughout history.
Meaning: Jesus as the confirmation and fulfillment of God’s promises
Revelation 3:14: “The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness.”
The Wisdom of God
More than just possessing wisdom, Jesus embodies divine wisdom itself—God’s perfect plan and solution for humanity’s deepest needs.
Meaning: Jesus as the embodiment of divine wisdom
1 Corinthians 1:24: “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”
Titles Reflecting Jesus’ Humanity
Son of Man
While revealing His humanity, this title also connects Jesus to Daniel’s prophetic vision of the divine figure who receives universal authority and dominion. Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God, as stated in Matthew 16:16, further emphasizes His divine nature.
Meaning: Emphasizes His humanity and role as the prophesied figure in Daniel
Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.”
Son of David
This genealogical title confirms Jesus’ royal lineage and right to David’s throne, fulfilling God’s covenant promise of an eternal kingdom.
Meaning: His messianic lineage from King David
Matthew 1:1: “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David.”
Man of Sorrows
Isaiah’s prophetic description highlights Jesus’ intimate acquaintance with suffering, rejection, and grief—experiences that enable Him to fully empathize with our pain.
Meaning: A title emphasizing Jesus’ suffering and empathy with human pain
Isaiah 53:3: “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.”
Servant
Despite His divine status, Jesus willingly adopted the position of a servant, demonstrating the true nature of spiritual greatness through humility and sacrifice.
Meaning: Jesus as the humble one who came to serve and sacrifice
Philippians 2:7: “But emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant.”
The Nazarene
This seemingly simple reference to Jesus’ hometown carried significant prophetic weight and would become part of His identity throughout His ministry.
Meaning: A reference to His hometown, fulfilling prophecy
Matthew 2:23: “He shall be called a Nazarene.”
Teacher (Rabbi)
Jesus was recognized and addressed as an authoritative teacher whose wisdom and insight surpassed that of the established religious leaders of His day.
Meaning: A master instructor of divine truth
John 1:38: “They said to him, ‘Rabbi’ (which means Teacher), ‘where are you staying?’
“I Am” Statements of Jesus
The Way
In this powerful declaration, Jesus announces Himself as the exclusive path to reconciliation with God, rejecting the notion of multiple valid spiritual approaches.
Meaning: The exclusive path to God
John 14:6: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
The Truth
Against a backdrop of competing philosophical claims, Jesus presents Himself as the embodiment of absolute truth—not just teaching truth but being truth itself.
Meaning: The embodiment of divine truth
John 14:6: (see above)
The Life
Death entered through sin, but Jesus declares Himself to be life itself—the source and giver of both physical resurrection and spiritual regeneration.
Meaning: The source of eternal life
John 14:6: (see above)
Bread of Life
Just as physical bread sustains the body, Jesus offers Himself as the spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies the deepest hunger of the human soul.
Meaning: Spiritual sustenance for humanity
John 6:35: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger.”
Light of the World
In a world shrouded in spiritual darkness and confusion, Jesus shines as the illuminating presence that reveals God’s nature and guides humanity’s path.
Meaning: The one who dispels spiritual darkness
John 8:12: “I am the light of the world.”
Good Shepherd
Unlike hired hands who abandon the flock when danger comes, Jesus demonstrates His loving care by willingly sacrificing His life to protect His sheep.
Meaning: The protector and guide of His people
John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
The Door (Gate)
Using pastoral imagery familiar to His audience, Jesus identifies Himself as the only legitimate entry point to salvation and spiritual safety.
Meaning: The entryway to salvation
John 10:9: “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved.”
The Resurrection and the Life
Standing before the tomb of Lazarus, Jesus proclaims His authority over death itself and His power to grant eternal life to all who believe in Him.
Meaning: The power over death and giver of eternal life
John 11:25: “I am the resurrection and the life.”
The Vine
Using agricultural imagery, Jesus explains the vital spiritual connection believers must maintain with Him to produce meaningful spiritual fruit.
Meaning: The source of spiritual vitality for His followers
John 15:5: “I am the vine; you are the branches.”
The True Vine
By identifying Himself as the “true” vine, Jesus contrasts Himself with Israel, which had been called God’s vine but failed to produce the expected fruit.
Meaning: Jesus as the source of life and fruitfulness for believers
John 15:1: “I am the true vine.”
Jesus’ Sacrificial and Redemptive Titles
Lamb of God
This powerful image connects Jesus to the Passover lamb and the entire sacrificial system, identifying Him as the perfect and final sacrifice for sin.
Meaning: Jesus as the sacrificial atonement for sin
John 1:29: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
Redeemer
Like someone paying the price to free a slave, Jesus purchased our freedom from sin and death through His sacrificial blood.
Meaning: The one who buys back humanity from sin
Job 19:25 (fulfilled in Christ): “I know that my Redeemer lives.”
Mediator
Standing between holy God and sinful humanity, Jesus bridges the vast separation and facilitates peace between parties that could not otherwise be reconciled.
Meaning: The one who reconciles humanity to God
1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
High Priest
Unlike the temporary priests of the old covenant who offered sacrifices repeatedly, Jesus serves as our permanent High Priest who offered Himself once for all.
Meaning: The ultimate intercessor between God and man
Hebrews 4:14: “We have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God.”
Advocate
When we sin, we have a legal representative—Jesus—who pleads our case before the Father based on His own righteousness and completed work. Ye sin not, but if ye sin, remember that Jesus Christ intercedes on our behalf, emphasizing His moral teachings and role as our advocate.
Meaning: Jesus as the intercessor and defender of believers before God
1 John 2:1: “We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”
Deliverer
Just as God delivered Israel from physical bondage in Egypt, Jesus delivers His people from the spiritual bondage of sin and its eternal consequences.
Meaning: The one who rescues His people from bondage
Romans 11:26: “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob.”
The Stone of Stumbling
While Jesus is the cornerstone for believers, this title acknowledges that many reject Him, finding His claims and requirements offensive or unacceptable.
Meaning: Jesus as a point of offense for unbelievers
1 Peter 2:8: “A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense.”
Titles of Jesus’ Authority and Kingship
King of Kings
This majestic title proclaims Jesus’ supreme sovereignty over every ruler, government, and authority that exists in heaven and on earth.
Meaning: Supreme ruler over all earthly and heavenly powers
Revelation 19:16: “On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.”
Lord of Lords
Complementing “King of Kings,” this title emphasizes that all other authorities derive their power from Jesus and are ultimately subject to Him.
Meaning: Ultimate authority over all
Revelation 19:16: (see above)
Prince of Peace
In a world of conflict and turmoil, Jesus brings true peace—reconciliation with God, inner peace for believers, and eventually global peace in His kingdom.
Meaning: The bringer of reconciliation and peace
Isaiah 9:6: (see above)
King of the Jews
Though meant mockingly on His cross, this title correctly identified Jesus as the rightful heir to David’s throne and the prophesied King of Israel.
Meaning: A title acknowledging His messianic kingship
Matthew 27:37: “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.”
Lion of the Tribe of Judah
Contrasting with the “Lamb of God,” this title portrays Jesus’ majestic strength, royal lineage, and ultimate victory over all opposition.
Meaning: His strength and kingship
Revelation 5:5: “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered.”
Judge of the Living and the Dead
This sobering title reminds us that Jesus will return not only as Savior but as the righteous Judge who will evaluate every person’s life.
Meaning: Jesus as the ultimate arbiter of justice
Acts 10:42: “He is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.”
Head of the Church
Just as the head directs the body, Jesus leads, guides, and governs His church, providing direction and receiving ultimate allegiance from believers.
Meaning: His leadership over believers
Ephesians 5:23: “Christ is the head of the church, his body.”
The Chosen One
This title emphasizes Jesus’ special selection and appointment by God the Father for His redemptive mission on earth.
Meaning: Jesus as God’s anointed servant
Luke 23:35: “If he is the Chosen One of God.”
Jesus’ Prophetic Titles
Root of David
This paradoxical title reveals that Jesus is both David’s descendant and his source—highlighting His divine nature as both creator and fulfillment of the Davidic covenant.
Meaning: His messianic origin and authority
Revelation 5:5: “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered.”
Branch
Old Testament prophets used this agricultural image to depict the Messiah as a fresh growth from the seemingly dead stump of David’s royal line.
Meaning: A prophetic title symbolizing the Messiah as a descendant of David
Zechariah 3:8: “Behold, I will bring my servant the Branch.”
Prophet
Jesus fulfilled Moses’ prediction of a prophet like himself who would speak with divine authority and deliver God’s people through a new covenant.
Meaning: One who speaks God’s word and will
Acts 3:22: “Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers.'”
Wonderful Counselor
This messianic title speaks of Jesus’ supernatural wisdom and His ability to provide perfect guidance to those who seek Him.
Meaning: A divine source of wisdom and guidance
Isaiah 9:6: (see above)
Morning Star
Just as the morning star heralds the dawn, Jesus brings light, hope, and the promise of a new day to a dark and hopeless world.
Meaning: A symbol of hope and victory
Revelation 22:16: “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.”
Dayspring (Dawn)
Zechariah prophetically referred to the Messiah as the sunrise from heaven, bringing light to those in darkness and guiding feet into the path of peace.
Meaning: Jesus as the bringer of light and new beginnings
Luke 1:78: “The sunrise shall visit us from on high.”
Apostle
While we often think of the twelve apostles, Jesus was the original “sent one” dispatched by the Father with divine authority to accomplish our salvation.
Meaning: Jesus as the one sent by God with divine authority
Hebrews 3:1: “Consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession.”
Everlasting Father
This title from Isaiah’s prophecy speaks to Christ’s eternal nature and His fatherly care for His people throughout all generations.
Meaning: Eternal protector and provider
Isaiah 9:6: (see above)
Horn of Salvation
In biblical imagery, a horn represents strength and power; Jesus is the mighty power of God brought near to save His people.
Meaning: A symbol of strength and deliverance
Luke 1:69: “And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David.”
The Desire of All Nations
Though many cultures may not realize it, Jesus fulfills the deepest longings of all peoples for meaning, forgiveness, and relationship with God.
Meaning: Jesus as the ultimate hope of all peoples
Haggai 2:7: “And the desire of all nations shall come.”
Relationship Titles and names of Jesus
Bridegroom
This intimate metaphor depicts the deep love between Christ and His church, foreshadowing the ultimate union to be fully realized at His return.
Meaning: Jesus as the husband of the Church
Matthew 9:15: “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?”
Cornerstone
Ancient builders would carefully select the cornerstone that would determine the alignment of the entire structure; Jesus serves this role for the Church.
Meaning: The foundation of faith and the Church
Ephesians 2:20: “Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.”
Chief Cornerstone
Peter emphasizes Jesus’ role as not just any cornerstone but the most important one—chosen by God and precious despite human rejection.
Meaning: The foundational stone upon which the Church is built
1 Peter 2:6: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious.”
The Living Stone
Unlike literal stones used in buildings, Jesus is the living foundation whose life and power flow through the entire spiritual edifice of the Church.
Meaning: Jesus as the living foundation of faith
1 Peter 2:4: “A living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious.”
Rock
Throughout Scripture, God is portrayed as a rock of refuge and stability; Paul specifically identifies Christ as the Rock that sustained Israel in the wilderness.
Meaning: A symbol of strength and refuge
1 Corinthians 10:4: “The Rock was Christ.”
The Shepherd and Overseer of your Souls
This title beautifully combines Jesus’ tender care as Shepherd with His authoritative guidance as Overseer of our spiritual lives.
As holy brethren, we are partakers of a heavenly calling, united in our faith and spiritual bond under the guidance of the Apostle and High Priest Christ Jesus.
Meaning: Jesus as the protector and guide of believers
1 Peter 2:25: “The Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”
The Consolation of Israel
Devout Simeon had waited his entire life to see the Messiah who would bring comfort and fulfillment to God’s ancient promises to Israel.
Meaning: Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel’s hope and comfort
Luke 2:25: “Waiting for the consolation of Israel.”
Character and Roles of Jesus
Faithful and True
In a world of broken promises and deception, Jesus stands as the completely reliable one whose character and words can be fully trusted.
Meaning: His unchanging reliability and truthfulness
Revelation 19:11: “He is called Faithful and True.”
The Faithful Witness
Jesus perfectly revealed the Father’s character and truth, even to the point of sealing His testimony with His own blood.
Meaning: Jesus as the true testimony of God’s truth
Revelation 1:5: “Jesus Christ the faithful witness.”
Author and Finisher of our Faith
This powerful title reveals Jesus as both the initiator and completer of our faith journey, working from beginning to end in believers’ lives.
Meaning: Jesus as the originator and perfecter of faith for believers
Hebrews 12:2: “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.”
Firstborn from the Dead
While others had been temporarily resurrected, Jesus was the first to rise to permanent, glorified life—pioneering the way for all believers.
Meaning: Jesus as the first to rise from the dead, leading the way for others
Colossians 1:18: “He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead.”
The Last Adam
Where the first Adam brought sin and death through disobedience, Jesus—the last Adam—brings righteousness and life through perfect obedience.
Meaning: Jesus as the new representative of humanity, reversing the fall of Adam
1 Corinthians 15:45: “The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.”
Physician
Jesus compared His ministry to that of a doctor who comes specifically for the sick, showing His mission to heal broken humanity.
Meaning: Jesus as the healer of physical and spiritual ailments
Luke 5:31: “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.”
The Just One
Despite being executed as a criminal, Jesus was recognized even by His enemies as uniquely righteous—the perfectly just one who died for the unjust.
Meaning: Jesus as the perfectly righteous one
Acts 7:52: “The coming of the Righteous One.”
Practical Application
Understanding the Fullness of Christ Through His Names
These 70 names and titles of Jesus aren’t merely interesting biblical facts—they form a comprehensive portrait of who Jesus is and what He means to believers. No single name can capture the full reality of Christ, but together they reveal His multifaceted nature and ministry.
The names of Jesus work together like facets of a diamond, each revealing a different aspect of His character and purpose. They help us appreciate the beautiful balance in Jesus’ nature: fully divine yet fully human, perfectly gentle yet righteously powerful, intimately personal yet cosmically sovereign.
Different seasons of our spiritual journey may connect us with different names of Jesus. When we need guidance, He is our “Wonderful Counselor.” When we feel lost, He is our “Good Shepherd.” When we seek truth, He is “The Truth.”
By understanding and embracing the full spectrum of Jesus’ names and titles, we gain a more complete picture of who He is. This comprehensive understanding helps us avoid creating a one-dimensional Jesus who fits our preferences but falls short of His true glory. Instead, we worship the full Christ—in all His power, tenderness, authority, and love—exactly as Scripture reveals Him.
Praying Through the Names of Jesus
Incorporating Jesus’ names into your prayer life can transform your conversations with God, giving them new depth and biblical richness. Each name offers a unique avenue for approaching God based on specific aspects of Christ’s character and work.
When facing uncertainty, pray to Jesus as your “Wonderful Counselor,” acknowledging His perfect wisdom and guidance. During times of spiritual warfare, call upon the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah,” recognizing His power over all evil forces. In moments of guilt or shame, approach the “Advocate” who pleads your case before the Father.
These names can also structure your worship. Thank “Immanuel” for God’s presence in your life. Praise the “King of Kings” for His sovereign rule over all creation. Express gratitude to the “Good Shepherd” for His attentive care and protection.
Try focusing on a different name each day or week. For example: “Lord Jesus, today I come to you as the ‘Bread of Life.’ I recognize that you alone can satisfy the deepest hunger of my soul. Fill me with your presence and nourish my spirit with your truth.” This practice helps you experience the richness of Christ’s character and develop a more intimate relationship with Him through prayer.
Remember that these names aren’t just titles—they’re revelations of who Jesus is and how He relates to you personally. By praying through them, you connect with the full, magnificent reality of Christ as revealed in Scripture.
Living in Response to Jesus’ Names
Understanding Jesus’ names should transform how we live daily. When we grasp Jesus as “The Way,” we follow His path rather than our own. Recognizing Him as “Good Shepherd” helps us trust His guidance even in difficult valleys. Knowing Him as “Head of the Church” reminds us to submit to His authority in all decisions.
These names provide practical wisdom for various life situations: When facing temptation, remember the “Faithful and True” who empowers your obedience. During conflict, embody the “Prince of Peace” by pursuing reconciliation. In service to others, follow the example of the one who “came not to be served but to serve.”
Conclusion
The 70 names and titles of Jesus offer an inexhaustible treasure of insight into His character, mission, and relationship with us. Each name reveals a different facet of His perfect nature and reminds us of His all-sufficient grace for every need.
As you continue exploring these names in Scripture, let them move from theological concepts to personal reality. Allow each name to deepen your worship, strengthen your prayers, and transform your daily walk.
The more intimately you know Christ through His names, the more your life will reflect His beauty and power. This is the great invitation of Scripture—not just to know about Jesus, but to truly know Him in all His magnificent fullness.
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