By Shane Kastler
According to the Bible, the term “Christian” was first used in Antioch (Acts 11:26). Likely it was a term of derision used by the opponents of the church, given the that the term means “little Christs” or “imitators of Christ.” Yet this term, in God’s providence, came to be the predominant term to describe followers of Jesus. Regardless of what denomination you might hold to; as a believer you would no doubt wish to be called a “Christian” above any other thing.
It is interesting to note that most religious groups are named after the leader of their sect. For example, Lutherans are Protestant Christians who align themselves with the teachings of Martin Luther. If you follow Jacob Arminius’s view of salvation you are called an “Arminian”; just as if you follow John Calvin’s view you are called a “Calvinist.” In these examples, the adherents are called by the actual name of the leader. But this is not true with Christians, because “Christ” was not Jesus’s name, but rather one of his titles. So why are we not called “Jesus-ians” or maybe “Jesusites”?
I believe the answer to this can be seen in the fact that Jesus was no ordinary man, like Luther, Arminius, or Calvin. Jesus was the very Son of God. Being divine, he “became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14) While the opponents of Christianity might see it as a cultic offshoot of Judaism, the New Testament teaches that Christianity is, in fact, the fulfillment of Judaism. Jesus of Nazareth was not originally from Nazareth, but rather Heaven. And he was no mere carpenter, but the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
To be called a “Jesusite” might imply adherence to an earthly leader from Galilee. But the term Christian applies allegiance to the one who called himself, “The way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) By encompassing the title “Christ” into the name “Christian” we embrace not only the teachings of Jesus himself, but everything Jesus fulfilled as well. He is the promised Christ. He is the Messiah. He is Lord and Savior of his people. He is the Prince of Peace. He is God incarnate.
Christians are those who recognize Jesus for who he claims to be and is. But true Christians are much more than this. We adhere to his teachings, but we also have hearts that have been changed and lives that have been transformed from spiritual darkness to spiritual light. To be a Christian is more than intellectual agreement with the facts of Christ. To be a Christian is to be internally and eternally changed by these facts. We are followers of Jesus. Who is the Christ. Who lived a sinless life. Who died for our sins. Who was raised again. Who ascended on high. And who will one day come again. There is no greater name for a person to be called than “Christian.” Does this name describe you? Turn from your sins and trust in Jesus. Submit to the Christ and become a Christian.
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