What does the Sacred Name Movement teach?

TL;DR:

The Sacred Name Movement teaches that believers must use specific Hebrew names for God and Jesus and follow Old Testament Law, but Scripture shows that God accepts worship in all languages through faith in Christ.

what does the bible say?

The Sacred Name Movement claims believers must use specific Hebrew names for God ("Yahweh") and Jesus ("Yahshua"), while following Old Testament laws and festivals. However, Scripture reveals God's concern is not with the precise pronunciation of His name but with genuine faith and worship, as well as the correct object of our worship: God alone. The Bible was written in multiple languages (Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic) and shows God accepting worship in various tongues. Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament Law, establishing a New Covenant based on faith, rather than legal observance. The movement's emphasis on Hebrew names and Old Testament regulations contradicts the biblical teaching of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, regardless of language or cultural background.

from the old testament

Exodus 3:13–15: When God revealed His name to Moses, He emphasized His eternal nature and relationship with His people, rather than an exact pronunciation. The focus was on God's character and presence, not linguistic precision.
Isaiah 56:6–7: God promised that His house would be "a house of prayer for all peoples," showing His acceptance of worship from all nations and languages.
Zephaniah 3:9: God speaks of giving people "pure speech" to call on His name. God cares about the heart's intent, rather than specific pronunciations.

from the new testament

Acts 2:5–11: At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit enabled the apostles to proclaim God's works in multiple languages. This revealed God's acceptance of different tongues for worship.
Romans 10:12–13: Paul declares there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, stating that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved," regardless of language.
Colossians 2:16–17: Paul warns against judging others regarding festivals, new moons, or Sabbaths. Instead, these were shadows pointing to Christ, who fulfilled them all.
Hebrews 8:13: The New Covenant made the first one obsolete. Strict adherence to Old Testament practices is not required for believers.

implications for today

God's acceptance of worship in all languages challenges the Sacred Name Movement's restrictive teachings. This brings freedom to believers worldwide, affirming that God hears and accepts sincere worship in every tongue. The movement's focus on Hebrew names and Old Testament Law misses the heart of the gospel—that salvation comes through faith in Christ, not through precise pronunciations or ritual observances. Christ, the One who fulfilled all the festivals and rituals and who revealed God to us, is the One we worship. Knowing this helps us maintain unity in what is essential for faith, rather than being bound by specific linguistic or ritualistic requirements. We can rejoice that God welcomes all who come to Him through faith in His Son, regardless of their language or cultural background.

understand

The Sacred Name Movement requires using Hebrew names for God and Jesus, as well as adhering to Old Testament Law.
The Bible reveals multiple times that God accepts worship in any language.
Jesus fulfills the Old Covenant, emphasizing salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, rather than ritual observance.

reflect

How do you understand the significance of worshiping God in your own language instead of using specific pronunciations in Hebrew?
How can you ensure that your worship remains on God, rather than on traditions and rituals?
What is your response to the purpose of the Old Testament laws and festivals as they point to Jesus?

engage

How can we respond with the truth in love to those who adhere to the Sacred Name Movement?
How does the emphasis on Old Testament Law in the Sacred Name Movement compare with the teachings of Jesus about the New Covenant?
In light of the Bible’s teachings that God accepts worship in various languages, how can we build unity among the diversity of believers?