The word “CHRISTIAN” is used only three times in the bible, and they tell us volumes about what it means to be one.
In a world filled with denominations, doctrines, and religious labels, the concept of simply being just “Christians” can be both refreshing and thought-provoking. This idea challenges individuals to strip away the layers of man-made traditions and sectarian divisions, focusing solely on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the early church. Embracing the identity of being just “Christian” emphasizes a return to the core principles of faith, love, and unity found in the New Testament.
It encourages believers to seek a shared commitment to following Christ without the barriers created by denominational affiliations.
Through this lens, being just “Christians” emphasizes a simple yet profound approach to live out the teachings of Jesus in a world that often complicates true faith.
“And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:26).
When we are baptized into Christ through faith we are added to the church (Acts 2:38-47). A disciple in the Lord’s church is an adherent of the doctrines of Christ. In this passage we learn that a CHRISTIAN is synonymous with being a disciple who had been added to the church by God when they obeyed the gospel. Many who claim to be Christian are neither adherent to the doctrine of Christ, and have not been added to the church not having obeyed the Gospel.
“Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:28).
In this passage, Agrippa demonstrates his understanding that the name CHRISTIAN involves doing something to become one. Here, “CHRISTIAN” is used interchangeably with what Paul taught and what he had done. Agrippa was being taught about Christ. What did Paul teach and what had he done? He was a Christian because he had been baptized into Christ (Acts 22:16), and he was a disciple (adherent to the doctrine) of Christ. “Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision” (Act 26:19).
“Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” (1Peter 4:16,17).
CHRISTIAN can be used interchangeably with “HOUSE of GOD.” A Christian is a member of the house of God. It can also be noted that Christian stands in contrast to “them that obey not the gospel.” As adherents to the teaching of Christ, and obedience to the gospel, we are not ashamed to bear the name “CHRISTIAN.”
There was no ‘church of your choice’ in New Testament times. Division was condemned (1Cor 1:10-13). When individuals obeyed the gospel of God by believing in Jesus, repenting of their sins, confessing their faith in Jesus and being baptized to wash away their sins, they were ADDED TO THE CHURCH by the Lord and were known by Him as His true disciples, (Acts 2:38,47). They were CHRISTIANS.
Agape,
Spencer
Here’s a link to another article about being a CHRISTIAN.
You’re invited to visit one of our assembly times or bible studies to see for yourself what we do and say.
Borger church of Christ @ Franklin & Juniper 