“Christians”

Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, 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

Believers who have been saved by the atoning blood of Jesus Christ have a spiritual family name. We are called, “Christians.”

In the New Testament, the name Christian was first given to the disciples in Antioch by those who noted their behavior. Two things defined these early believers. They talked the good news of the Lord Jesus everywhere they went. And they eagerly learned the Scriptures as Barnabas and Saul taught them for a whole year.

The name Christian means an “adherent to Christ” – literally one who “sticks” to Christ. Today many people call themselves Christians. But should they?

If you call yourself a Christian, does your life tell others who Jesus is? Are you hungry for God’s Word? Do your actions bring honor or shame to Christ’s name?

What’s in a name? When the name is Christian, there is much indeed!

A Christian reflects Jesus Christ.

Our Daily Bread – March 18, 2009