“Christians”

Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phonecia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord.

News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord. Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called, “Christians.”

Acts 11:19-26

The disciples of the Lord Jesus in Antioch were the first to be called Christians. It is a name that could never be improved on because it identifies believers as followers of Jesus Christ. We are honored to bear a name that links us to God’s Son, who is our Savior and Redeemer. This should shape and mold our manner of living so that it becomes increasingly consistent with the way Jesus spoke and conducted Himself.

If we want to call ourselves Christians,

we have to live up to the name!

Christians are either Bibles or libels.

Our Daily Bread – May 27, 2005