1. Theology Proper
The Names of God

2. In so far as men are concerned the meaning of names is relatively inconsequential. This is seldom true with reference to Bible names and never true with reference to the names of God.  
Many of the names found in the Old Testament have some element of the name of God embedded either “el” from Elohim or “jah” from Jehovah. A classic example is the name Samuel which means “asked of God.” This reflects an intimate relationship between God and men.

3. There are direct names such as Adonai (Lord), Yahweh (Jehovah), Elohim (God). There are descriptive names such as the Rock, the Son of David, the Ancient of Days, and the Lord Hosts. There are personal names such as Jesus, Christ, Holy Spirit, and the Father. Each name has special significance and application.
As the aspects of the essence of God found in His attributes are multifaceted, so the names by which He is described call attention to the greatness of His being and the complexity of His character.

4. Elohim
This is the most commonly recognized name and is simply translated “God.” It occurs about 2,570 times in the Old Testament, of which 2,310 times have reference to the true God. Elohim is a plural noun.
The Bible begins with Elohim, creator God (Genesis 1:1). This name often appears as God functions in the exercise of His creative power.

5. It is to Elohim that every person is accountable by virtue of being a creation of God. Even those people who through unbelief do not have a personal relationship with God are still a accountable to the God who made them. It is the same creative power of God that sustains the creation. (Col. 1:16-17)

6. Jehovah
The second major name is the Hebrew word Yahweh. This is most often translated in the Old Testament by the word LORD. Many English readers fail to recognize that the name being used is actually Jehovah.
By definition the name Jehovah calls attention to God’s self-existence. He is eternal God who depends upon no one and nothing for His existence.

7. Jehovah is most often associated with a covenant relationship between God and his people. Self-existent God makes and maintains this covenant relationship. Consequently He maintains a presence with His people. (Exo. 3:12)

8. Compounds of Jehovah
Jehovah Jireh – “the LORD will Provide” (Genesis 22:14)
Jehovah Nissi – “the LORD our banner” (Exodus 17:15)
Jehovah Shalom – “the LORD our peace” (Judges 6:24)
Jehovah Sabbaoth – “the LORD of hosts” (1 Samuel 1:3)

9. Jehovah Maccaddeshcem – “the LORD who sanctifies you” (Exodus 31:13)
Jehovah Roi – “the LORD is my shepherd” (Psalm 23:1)
Jehovah Tsidkenu – “the LORD our righteousness” (Jeremiah 23:6)
Jehovah Shammah – “The LORD is there” (Ezekiel 48:35)
Jehovah Elohim Israel – “the LORD, the God of Israel” (Judges 5:3; Isaiah 17:6)

10. It is also interesting that the name Jehovah is actually attributed to Christ in the New Testament. Exo. 17:2,7 states that Israel tempted Jehovah in Rephidim. 1 Cor. 10:9 indicates that it was Christ that the Israelites tempted. Isaiah’s references to Jehovah (Isa. 6:1-5; 40:3; 45:21-23) are clearly connected to the person of Christ (John 12:41; Matt. 3:3; Phil. 2:9-11). It is with the Old Testament form of Jehovah that our Lord describes Himself in the gospel of John with the all-important words “I AM.”

11. Jehovah – I AM the Bread of Life – John 6:35, 48, 51
the Light of the world – John 8:12; 9:5
the Door – John 10:7, 9
the Good Shepherd – John 10:11, 14
the Son of God – John 10:36
the Resurrection, and the Life – John 11:25
the Way, the Truth, and the Life – John 14:6
the True Vine – John 15:1, 5