'CHRISTIANS'

The term ‘Christian’ is one that is frequently used to identify those who have obeyed the gospel of
Christ. We often talk about our conduct as Christians and followers of Jesus and should continue to
do so more and more as we grow in Him. The name Christian is a term descriptive of one
who believes in Jesus Christ, as the Son of God and our Savior and Redeemer.
The etymology of the word possibly means an adherent or partisan of Christ.

But as Many times as we discuss what it means to BE a Christian, it is interesting that the term is
only found 3 times in the Bible (Acts 11:26, 26:28, 1 Peter 4:16). In the New Testament, followers of
Christ were frequently called Disciples, Children of God, Servants, Saints, The Elect, Brethren, or
simply “The Church” - all of these are descriptive of our relationship with our heavenly Father and
our Lord Jesus Christ and with one another. But the term, ‘Christian’ stands out when it is used
exclusively to identify us with Christ and set us apart from those who serve any other master.

It is believed by many that the origin of the word was a Roman style of Latin and that it was a
possibly a derogatory remark or negative word used against those who did not believe in the roman
gods, almost mocking them the same way the word “atheists” is used today, Because they did not
understand there lack of faith in there gods.

Whether the word was originally used negatively or not it seems to be clearly used now
to describe a follower of Christ.

The first time we see the use of the term 'Christians' is in (Acts 11:26).

Herod uses the term again in (Acts 26:28).

Here we get our Hymn “Almost Persuaded” as it used this verse as its basis.
He possibly used it mockingly although the text does not tell us,
This was also at the same time that followers of Herod where referred to as Herodians (Mark 3:6).

And Finally the third and final time it is found is in (1 Peter 4:16).
Here the name is referred to in a context of suffering among Christians and warns
of the persecutions they would face.

Every other descriptive term used of early Christians could be used to describe others
who are not true Christians.
Brothers, Children, Followers, Servants can all be found in other religions around the world.
Most of them the beliefs of men and not based on the bible.

But there is no Doubt who the term 'Christian' is referring to.

It set them apart from others like the Jews and the Romans at the time and it should set us apart
today from those who are of the world and living in sin, instead of living in Christ.

So where did the word come from? Ultimately it came from God.

And that leads us to the final question:

Are you also wearing his Name?

If not why don't you come forward now and do what it takes to be saved as we stand and sing.