July 22, 2026 4:00 am
The doctrine of verbal inspiration suggests that the order of words in Scripture is also inspired, providing new insights into passages. The names Jesus and Christ Jesus are used interchangeably, with different authors and contexts influencing the choice of order. Philippians 2, 5-11, illustrates the reversal of order to emphasize the glory of the risen Savior and the glory that believers will share with Him.
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Welcome to the Days of Praise podcast, a daily devotional by the Institute for Creation Research. Jesus Christ or Christ Jesus? For our conversation is in heaven, from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3.20. Yeah.
The doctrine of verbal inspiration implies that not only are the words of Scripture inspired, but the very order in which they appear is also inspired. study by commentators and translators have rightly noted that a change in the order of the words would at times change the meaning or emphasis of a passage. This phenomenon is often seen in the order in which the various names of Christ appear. By noting this order, one may sometimes gain new insight into a passage. While the name Jesus alone normally appears in the Gospels and the book of Acts, the compound name Jesus Christ appears on occasion.
Interestingly, the same compound name is used exclusively by the disciples John and Peter in their letters and by James and Jude, the brothers of our Lord. Of course, these men knew him first by his human name, Jesus, and only fully comprehended the fact that he was the Christ after his resurrection and ascension. Paul, on the other hand, first encountered Christ in all his glory on the road to Damascus. Perhaps as a consequence he frequently reversed the order, speaking of Christ Jesus, although he used both orders many times. The reason for this choice of order perhaps can be best illustrated in Philippians 2, 5-11.
In verse 5, Paul described the Anointed One who first emptied himself of certain aspects of his deity to take on human form. Therefore Paul used the name Christ Jesus. In verse 11, however, the order is reversed. In this case, as in our text, the movement is from humanity to glory. In one, the glory of the risen Savior is emphasized, in the other, the glory that we shall share with Him.
This glory is assured us through his victory. If you've enjoyed today's devotional, be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. And please rate and review so more listeners can find us. To support ICR's ministry, visit icr.org/slash donate. Your gift of any amount helps us to reach others with biblical truth and encouragement.
Thanks for listening. We hope you'll start each day with days of praise.
