IN GOD’S NAME (MATTHEW 12:22-37

REFLECTION The theme “In God’s Name” calls us to think deeply about whose power we rely on and whose reputation we represent. To act in someone’s “name” means to act with their authority and for their purpose. In this reflection, we look at how Jesus performed miracles by the power of the Holy Spirit, while…

Jean-Paul Agidi

May 5, 2026

3–5 minutes

REFLECTION

The theme “In God’s Name” calls us to think deeply about whose power we rely on and whose reputation we represent. To act in someone’s “name” means to act with their authority and for their purpose. In this reflection, we look at how Jesus performed miracles by the power of the Holy Spirit, while his critics wrongly accused him of working for the devil. The key lesson from this passage is that our words and actions reveal who truly rules our hearts; we must ensure that everything we do is truly done in God’s name and by His Spirit.

The background of this text finds Jesus in a heated confrontation with the Pharisees. He had just healed a man who was blind, mute, and possessed by a demon. While the crowds were amazed, the religious leaders were cynical. They could not deny the miracle, so they tried to ruin Jesus’ reputation by claiming his power came from an evil source.

The Power of the Spirit vs. Divided Houses

Jesus begins by pointing out the simple logic that evil does not fight against itself. If he were using the devil’s power to cast out demons, the devil’s kingdom would fall. Instead, Jesus explains that his miracles are proof that the Kingdom of God has arrived. He says, “But if it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (Matthew 12:28).

This teaches us that when we do good works “In God’s Name,” we must rely entirely on the Holy Spirit. In our daily lives, this might mean choosing to forgive someone when it feels impossible or serving others when we are tired. We cannot do these things through our own strength or for our own glory. As the Bible says in Zechariah 4:6, “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” If we try to do God’s work without His Spirit, we are like a house divided against itself—we will eventually fail.

The Danger of Neutrality

Another vital lesson is that there is no “middle ground” in our relationship with God. Jesus is very clear: “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters” (Matthew 12:30). Acting in God’s name requires total commitment. We cannot claim to follow Him on Sundays but live for ourselves the rest of the week.

Practical examples of “scattering” include spreading gossip or being dishonest in business. Even if we think these are small things, if they do not align with God’s character, we are not gathering with Him. We are encouraged in Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” To truly act in His name, every part of our life must be surrendered to Him.

The Fruit of the Heart

Finally, Jesus warns that our words are the ultimate “litmus test” of our faith. He explains that a tree is known by its fruit. “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of” (Matthew 12:34). If we claim to act in God’s name, but our words are full of anger, lies, or pride, we prove that our hearts are not yet fully His.

Jesus reminds us that we will have to give an account for every careless word we speak. This is a sobering thought. If we want to represent God well, we must ask Him to change us from the inside out. When our hearts are filled with His love, our words will naturally bring healing and hope to those around us.

Conclusion

In summary, acting “In God’s Name” means recognizing the authority of the Holy Spirit, choosing to stand firmly with Jesus without compromise, and guarding our hearts so that our words reflect His goodness. We cannot afford to be divided or careless with our influence.

Call to Action: This week, I invite you to pause before you speak or act. Ask yourself: “Am I doing this in my own name, or in God’s name?” Let us commit to “gathering” with Jesus by showing kindness to a stranger, speaking truth in love, and relying on the Holy Spirit for strength.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the power of Your Holy Spirit. Forgive us for the times we have tried to do Your work in our own strength or spoken words that do not honour You. Please purify our hearts and fill them with Your love, so that everything we say and do may truly be done “In God’s Name.” Strengthen us to be faithful witnesses of Your Kingdom today. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.