Advent Word Study: 3

What's in a name?

Today's word is: Gabriel.

It's a name. Names have meaning. They disclose the nature of what is being named. That is why God's names, used in the Bible are so important. They give us an essential insight into His nature. In later studies we will look at some of the Messianic titles. But for now, we will focus on another character in our meditations on the Nativity.

We could do a character study on Gabriel. Where else he appears in the Bible. What other clues we have as to his work as an angel with authority from different passages dealing with angels.

But I want to focus on just one aspect. His name means "strong man"/champion/hero of God - The Almighty is literally his strength. Without Him, he is nothing, has no purpose, no position, no power.

It is not a throwaway remark when he reveals himself to Zachariah in Luke ch.1 v.19 by saying "I am Gabriel, I stand in the presence of God."

Question

What would you call yourself, and why? What meaning does the name you chose have that reveals your nature?