Question:  Dear Greg,

            I am a Filipino.  I just want to ask if you have any idea or know of any denomination that teaches that the original Hebrew name of God was and is YHVH instead of YHWH, and sounds like Yahvahshua instead of Jesus.  I had come across this while talking to a friend recently.

            Thank you for your time and may God continue to guide you in this ministry.

            Efren

Answer:  Dear Efren,

            I know that there are some groups that have a “sacred names” emphasis.  The idea behind all of this is that if the “correct” name of God is not used, God will not respond to us.  The idea is absurd given the message of the gospel.  The idea is that those who have a secret knowledge of the “true name” of God will have benefits, an inside track, etc. that others will not have.  Most groups who have such an emphasis are heavily influenced by parts of the old covenant (the parts that they or some charismatic leaders choose).

            Some Jews of course, will not even spell God’s name.  When they write it, in English, they will write “G-d”—in so doing they think that they will not profane God’s name.  All of this makes God into some kind of hermit-like recluse, some bizarre divine person from fantasy more than from the Bible.

            Hope this helps.  God bless you!

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht