. The First Christians by J. R. Miller The disciples were
first called Christians in Antioch, Acts 11 26. The lives of the
converts were so different from their unbelieving neighbors that
they were called Christians, It is supposed that the name
was given them in mockery or contempt by the heathen people
of Antioch. But the name stuck and is now
used universally to describe those who follow Christ. It may
not be the very best of names. Perhaps disciples is better.
Disciples means learners, followers. We should all be disciples of
Christ and should ever be learning of Him, growing in grace and
likeness of Him as we follow Him. Perhaps believers is a better
name. It carries in itself the thought
that we are saved by believing on Christ. It is faith which
works the victories in this world. Perhaps followers would be better.
To follow Christ is to receive Him as Master and to cling to
Him in obedience and devotion wherever we go. But the word
Christian, given at Antioch as a sneer, is now used everywhere. it is full of meaning. Those
who are Christians should be like Christ, little Christs. They should represent Christ
in the world. Those who see them should see
the image of Christ in them. Matthew Henry says, Hitherto
the followers of Christ were called disciples, that is, learners,
scholars, but from that time they were called Christians.
The proper meaning of this name is a follower of Christ. It denotes
one who, from serious thought, embraces the religion of Christ,
believes His promises, and makes it his chief care to shape his
life by Christ's precepts and example. Hence it is plain that
multitudes take the name of Christian to whom it does not rightly belong.
But the name without the reality will only add to our guilt. While
the bare profession will bestow neither profit nor delight, the
possession of it will give both the promise of the life that
now is and of that which is to come.