Disciples First Called Christians

The first believers were all Jewish, and they were considered just another group within Judaism. The most common terms were believers, brothers, saints, and disciples. Christian is only used three times in the New Testament. Our reading today tells us where this first came about,

Acts 11:25–26 NIV84

Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

As the church grew, with more Gentiles coming in, it came to recognized as a distinct movement.

Christian

Belong to the party of, follower of

The designation was probably applied to the Christians by outsiders, it probably contained an element of ridicule.

Those who were so called considered it an honor to bear the name.

Today the term Christian is used rather loosely. Some people say they are Christian simply because they aren’t Jewish or Muslim. One man was asked by a friend: “Are you a Christian?” He said, “Yes, I am.” He said, “Why are you a Christian?” He said, “I was born in America, and America is a Christian country so I’m a Christian.” And, the friend, with a smile on his face, said, “I knew of some kittens who were born in a breadbasket. That didn’t make them biscuits.”

Why were they called this?

There was something about these people which identified them as being followers of Christ,

Because they spoke so often of Christ and were followers of his way.

Because their lives were different from others, either Jewish or Gentile.

John 13:35 NIV84

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

That the early Christians indeed did love one another is attested in the famous statement, quoting observers of Christians, recorded by the church father Tertullian: “See how they love one another”

Jesus had told His disciples that they were to let their light so shine that others would see and give glory to God (Matt. 5:16)

Can we be called this?

Just as people listened to and watched the early church, people see and hear us as well. It’s said that there may be someone who learns all they will know about from us. What kind of example do we give?

Philippians 1:27 NIV84

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel

Also Eph. 4:1; Col. 1:10; 1 Thess. 2:12

Imagine that being a Christian became illegal in our country. If you were arrested and charged with being a follower of Christ would there be enough evidence to convict you? If we identify as Christians we want to live up to that name. Fortunately, the Holy Spirit works in our lives to make us more like Christ.

This is the goal of every disciple of Jesus. We each have different gifts, different views on many issues, but we have one calling – to glorify God.

Somebody asked William Carey, who was the founder of modern missions, “What is your job?” He said, “My job is being a Christian.” “No, no,” he said, “I appreciate that, but what is your job?” Now, William Carey, who took the gospel to India, was a cobbler—a shoemaker, a shoe repairman. So, the man asked him again. He said, “What is your job?” He said, “My job is being a Christian.” He said, “No, no, no, no. What is your job?” He said, “Oh, I think I know what you mean.” He said, “I mend shoes to make a living, but my job is being a Christian,”