FRIDAY June 2, 2023

Christian, an Honorable Name

Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.
Acts 11:25-26

Barnabas decided to seek Saul out, to bring him to Antioch. He was an amazing theologian who could help in the work to establish new believers in the Christian faith. Saul, who became known as the Apostle Paul, would later write 14 epistles that were essential for Christian doctrine. Together, Barnabas and Saul joined in the work to teach the Word of God for an entire year in Antioch so that young Christians could be established in the faith.

Any Christian church that teaches God’s Word, line upon line, will experience growth. God will add people to the church. It is important to understand that teaching is for the believer so they can develop, grow and come to maturity. Preaching, on the other hand, is to reach non-believers with the Gospel. When there is an emphasis on teaching the Word of God in a church, then what comes naturally is a multiplication––the sheep beget the sheep. In other words, Christians who are grounded in God’s Word will go out and invite other people to church. Those people will hear God’s Word and be saved.

Notice this incredible landmark in the Bible. For the very first time in Church history, believers in Christ were called Christians. What does the name Christian mean? It means “Christ follower.” This name identifies us with Christ. Previously, believers in Christ were referred to as those of the Way (Acts 9:1-2). It was also recorded by a Jewish, Lawyer, Tertullus, that followers of Jesus Christ were called “Nazarenes.” The name Christian was given to Christ’s disciples by Gentiles, no doubt as a scorn. However, later the term was accepted by believers as a title of honor.

Bear the name of Christ with honor. Be a good reflection of Christ to others.

It is not that I want merely to be called a Christian, but actually to be one. Yes, if I prove to be one, then I can have the name.
~Ignatius of Antioch~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!