Adonai
In this powerful message, Pastor DaVon unpacks the rich meaning behind the name “Adonai,” revealing God not just as Lord, but as our Owner and Master in the most loving, personal sense. Discover the biblical difference between a slave and a bondservant, and why choosing to serve God willingly leads to a deeper relationship and real freedom. If you’ve ever struggled with control, identity, or purpose, this message will help you see that surrendering to Adonai isn’t bondage; it’s the beginning of true life.
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Notes
Adonai is not a name that people use until they come to the end of themselves, hit rock bottom, or have a divine encounter. You have to be humble to use the name Adonai.
Acts 26:12-19
Who are you, Adonai?
God is not only our Creator, He is our Lord, Master, and Owner.
Not like a dictator, but more like a shepherd.
The One who lovingly leads, governs, and deserves our full surrender.
Adonai is often used as a title of reverence and submission
Knowing Him as Adonai will cause you to make a deeper commitment to Him.
Romans 1:1; Philippians 1:1; Titus 1:1; Galatians 1:10
These verses show how Paul described himself as a bondservant, fully devoted to serving Jesus.
There’s a difference between a slave and a bondservant
Slave: A person who is the legal property of another and is forced to obey. Forced labor. No freedom or autonomy.
Slavery is control and abuse with no choice
Bondservant or Bond slave: A person who serves another by voluntary choice, willingly serves a master because they love him.
When Paul called himself a “bondservant of Christ,” he wasn’t saying he was forced into it. He chose to give his life fully to Jesus because he trusted Him. It was about loyalty and love, not control or abuse.
You were once a slave to sin, but now you are a bondservant of righteousness
God doesn’t force us into servitude. He invites us into a relationship.
You are His purchased possession.
He recreated your spirit and purchased your body. You have to renew your mind.
A bondservant chooses to serve out of love, not fear.
True freedom is found in surrendering fully to Jesus.
Your surrender leads to power, purpose, and peace.
When you become a bondservant, the master is responsible for you.
You no longer have to take care of yourself
Adonai will protect you, provide for you, and direct you
You are more than a slave; you are a bond slave.
Luke 6:46
But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?
“I am Yours to command!”
Is Jesus just your Savior, or is He truly your Lord?
Is there anything in your life you’re still trying to control instead of letting Adonai lead?
Is He Lord over your schedule, relationships, finances, and future?
Your relationship with Adonai is not a democracy; it’s a theocracy. He reigns, not by vote, but by divine right.
Do you trust Adonai enough to obey Him when you don’t understand?
Conclusion:
When you call God “Adonai,” you acknowledge: “You are in charge. I am Yours. I will follow.”
Most people cringe at the thought of God having control over them.
Let’s recommit our lives to Adonai
“Adonai, You are not only my Savior, You are my Master. You are Adonai! You have full authority in my life.”