When we call ourselves “Christians” what do we think that means?

The earliest followers of Jesus were called “disciples.” That word is used about 269 times.

In those early days, the followers of Jesus were also called the people of “the Way.” That phrase occurs five times. 

So, when did the title “Christian” come into use? We first see it in Acts 11:26. “For a whole year they [Paul and Barnabas] met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.”

Notice how “disciple” and “the Way” clearly imply a way of life. These designations make you think of people who are devoted to the teachings of Jesus and to imitating him. They are action-oriented.

The same principle applied with the title “Christian.” After all, it means “of Christ.”

Over time, however, this action-oriented mentality can be lost if we’re not careful. We can start to think of the word “Christian” as a status. And it is. But it’s not only that. Sure, we might agree with certain beliefs, but do we also pattern our lives based on the kinds of things Jesus told us to do?

Let’s say a massive movement erupts based on a guy named Scott. Let’s also say that is followers became known as Scottians. You would expect that Scottians believed things that the original Scott believed, and would imitate Scott in their day to day lives. 

The same should be true for Christians. Yes, it’s a noun. But Christian is also a verb. 

None of us are perfect. Plus, we’re on a learning curve. We are works-in-progress. But as we move forward, let’s seek to be whole-hearted—not only when it comes to what we believe, but how we live.

Do we check the box that says “Christian” when we fill out a census, but then keep our Bibles closed? Do we attend the occasional worship service, but then never show love to the people around us?

The text book definition of a disciple is someone who sits at the feet of a Master, learns his teachings, and then imitates his life. Let’s do the same as we ponder the grace, truth, love, goodness, and holiness of Christ.

Christian is also a verb.

Notes:

-Bible quotes are from the ESV.