In the biblical context, influence refers to the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. The Bible is replete with examples of individuals whose influence, whether positive or negative, shaped the course of events and the lives of others.

One of the most profound examples of positive influence is found in the life of Jesus Christ. His teachings, miracles, and sacrificial love have had an unparalleled impact on humanity. In Matthew 5:14-16 , Jesus calls His followers to be the "light of the world," encouraging them to let their light shine before others, so that they may see their good deeds and glorify the Father in heaven. This passage underscores the importance of living a life that influences others towards righteousness and faith.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the power of influence in 1 Corinthians 15:33 , warning, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" Here, Paul emphasizes the potential for negative influence, urging believers to be mindful of their associations and the impact they can have on one's moral and spiritual well-being.

In the Old Testament, the influence of leaders is evident in the accounts of kings and prophets. For instance, King Solomon's wisdom and leadership brought prosperity and peace to Israel, as seen in 1 Kings 4:29-34 . However, his later years were marked by negative influence, as his foreign wives led him to idolatry, which ultimately contributed to the division of the kingdom (1 Kings 11:1-13).

The influence of parents is another significant theme in Scripture. Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse highlights the enduring impact of parental guidance and instruction on a child's life.

Naming

Naming in the Bible carries profound significance, often reflecting the character, destiny, or divine purpose of an individual. Names were not merely labels but were imbued with meaning and power.

In the creation narrative, God gives Adam the authority to name the animals, signifying man's dominion over creation (Genesis 2:19-20). This act of naming is an exercise of stewardship and responsibility.

Throughout Scripture, God Himself assigns names to individuals, often to signify a change in their life or mission. Abram's name is changed to Abraham, meaning "father of many nations," to reflect God's covenant promise (Genesis 17:5). Similarly, Jacob is renamed Israel after wrestling with God, symbolizing his transformation and the future of his descendants (Genesis 32:28).

The naming of Jesus is of paramount importance. In Matthew 1:21 , an angel instructs Joseph to name the child Jesus, "because He will save His people from their sins." The name Jesus, derived from the Hebrew Yeshua, means "The Lord is salvation," encapsulating His mission and divine purpose.

Names in the Bible also serve as memorials of significant events or divine encounters. For example, Bethel, meaning "house of God," is named by Jacob after his vision of the ladder reaching to heaven (Genesis 28:19).

In the New Testament, the practice of naming continues to hold spiritual significance. Saul's transformation and subsequent renaming to Paul marks his new identity and mission as an apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 13:9).

The Book of Revelation speaks of a new name given to believers, symbolizing their eternal identity and relationship with God (Revelation 2:17). This promise of a new name reflects the transformative power of God's grace and the believer's ultimate destiny in Christ.