Name-Dropping

And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. 

– Acts 2:21

The saying goes that it’s not what you know … it’s WHO you know that matters.

That’s especially true when our connections can help us avoid the typical obstacles faced by most people so we can obtain or accomplish something quickly and efficiently. For example, a phone call to the right person who already owes you a big favor might get you those tickets to that sold-out concert or sporting event. You might be able to get your child into the right school if you have a close friend in the admissions office. And that acquaintance who knows a mechanic who fixes vehicles on the side could get your car back on the road in no time — and for a price the dealership can’t beat.

This process can sometimes involve name-dropping, or suggesting that you have a relationship with a famous celebrity, politician, or other notable. We do it at parties, at job interviews, and when we want to impress someone. And while name-dropping can be annoying, sometimes it’s OK to brag about our relationship to the right person. In the Bible, Psalm 16:8 reveals that it’s encouraged:

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

At Christianity’s core is a connection with God through our faith in Jesus. Specifically, that relationship is one of a child and their parent, which is made possible through Jesus’ death on the cross — a punishment we all rightly deserve for our lifetimes stained by personal failures and shortcomings (better known as sin). But since we’re connected with the right person (Jesus), he’s already paid the price to save us from a certain death and eternal punishment in hell.

With that vital connection established, God also wants us to make relationships with others so they can begin their own journeys of faith. That means introducing them to Jesus, sharing his story, and relating how his atoning death means a whole new life here on earth — and later into eternity. And when these new believers encounter those inevitable bumps in the road, they’ll always know The One to call for help.

How can we get the ball rolling?

One of the best ways is to begin praying for people by name. They can be our family members, co-workers, neighbors, political leaders, the unsaved — and particularly our enemies. Afterward that, don’t be surprised if our Creator opens up the circumstances where we become the answer to someone else’s prayer. Jesus set the example when he sent 12 of his followers to the nearby Jewish communities to spread the Good News (the Gospel):

“Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel,” he told them. “As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.”

Not only were his followers the answer to someone’s prayers — they also used their connection with Jesus to overcome seemingly impossible situations. Now fast-forward to the 21st Century, and the same holds true for Christ's modern-day believers. So, be prepared to do some name-dropping whenever it’s necessary. Because it’s not what you know, but who you know that matters.