“The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” — Acts 11:26
In this verse, we read that the disciples did not call themselves Christians, the people of Antioch did. At first, the term was meant as an insult, a label used to mock those who followed Jesus. But over time, what began as ridicule became their greatest identity.
The people of Antioch called them Christians because they intently followed the LORD Jesus Christ. Their lives, words, and actions reflected His love and His character so clearly that others couldn’t help but associate them with Him.
When we read through the New Testament, we see that believers were often named after their regions, the people of Ephesus were called Ephesians, those in Galatia were called Galatians , but those who belonged to Christ were called Christians.
The believers in Antioch lived in such a way that the world around them could clearly see Jesus in them. Their character, humility, and compassion revealed the very nature of the One they followed. Being called a Christian wasn’t a title they gave themselves, it was a testimony that others saw in the way they lived.
Sadly, today the word Christian is used everywhere, yet not everyone who claims the name truly understands its meaning. Being a Christian is not about belonging to a religion, attending church, or knowing about Jesus, it’s about becoming like Him. The name Christian loses its power when it becomes a label instead of a lifestyle.
To be a Christian means to carry the presence of Christ into every part of our lives not perfectly, but sincerely.
Ask yourselves today,
Are you just calling yourselves Christians, or are you actually living like the LORD Christ?
When people look at you, do they see Jesus, or do they just see someone who talks about Him?
Do your words, your choices, your love, even when no one’s watching, prove that you belong to Him?
It’s easy to wear the name. It’s harder to live the life.
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