The name “Jesus” is known and worshiped across the world today. But have you ever wondered—what was His name before He was born in Bethlehem? Before the manger, the miracles, and the cross, who was Jesus in eternity?
This question opens a doorway into deep theology, ancient texts, and the eternal nature of the Son of God.
The Name "Jesus" Is Earthly
The name “Jesus” comes from the Hebrew Yeshua, meaning “The Lord saves.” It was the name given by the angel Gabriel (Luke 1:31) and fulfilled a very earthly mission: “You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).
But this name only came into use at the time of His incarnation—when the eternal Word became flesh.
In the Beginning Was the Word
John 1:1–3 tells us:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”
Before He was known as Jesus, He was known as the Word (Logos in Greek)—a divine, eternal person in perfect union with the Father.
This isn’t just poetic language. The “Word” was present at creation, speaking the universe into existence, revealing God’s mind and power.
The Angel of the Lord?
Throughout the Old Testament, a mysterious figure appears repeatedly: “The Angel of the Lord.”
This being speaks as God, receives worship, and acts with divine authority. Many theologians believe this was the pre-incarnate Christ, showing up before His birth.
In Genesis 16, 22, Exodus 3 (the burning bush!), and Judges 6, this angel doesn’t just represent God—He is God. Could this have been the eternal Son revealing Himself before taking human form?
The Name Above All Names
Philippians 2:9 says:
“God has highly exalted Him and given Him the name that is above every name.”
That exaltation came after His earthly life, death, and resurrection. But it implies He existed before with a glory and identity hidden from human eyes.
So What Was His Name?
Here are some biblical titles used for Jesus before His incarnation:
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The Word (John 1:1)
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The Angel of the Lord (Exodus 3:2, Judges 13:18)
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The Son of God (Proverbs 30:4 hints at Him)
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The Commander of the Lord’s Army (Joshua 5)
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Wisdom (Proverbs 8 — often interpreted as a poetic picture of Christ)
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The I AM (John 8:58 connects Jesus directly to God’s self-revealed name in Exodus 3:14)
While "Jesus" became His earthly name and mission, He was always divine, always existent, always the Son.
Why It Matters
Understanding who Jesus was before He came to earth isn’t just theological trivia—it reveals the depth of God’s love.
The eternal Word chose to become human. The one who shaped galaxies stepped into skin. He didn’t begin in Bethlehem. He has no beginning and no end.
Final Thought
So, what was His name before He came to Earth?
Maybe the better question is: Who was He?
And the answer is timeless:
He was God. He is God. And He will forever be the Lamb, the King, the Word made flesh.
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