Who was Christian?

The term “Christian” (Greek: Χριστιανός – Christianos) appears in the New Testament as a designation for the followers of Jesus Christ. It is derived from Christos (Χριστός), the Greek term for “Anointed One” or “Messiah,” and the suffix -ianos, which indicates belonging or allegiance. Thus, Christianos literally means “one who belongs to Christ” or “a follower of Christ.”

The word “Christian” is found only three times in the New Testament:

• Acts 11:26 – “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.”

• Acts 26:28 – “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?’”

• 1 Peter 4:16 – “However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.”

In 1 Peter 4:16, Peter exhorts believers not to be ashamed of suffering for their identity as Christians, but to glorify God for being counted worthy to bear the name. This statement reveals both the stigma and the honor associated with the term during the early days of the Church.

Biblical Context and References

The term “Christian” was likely first used by outsiders as a label for the disciples of Jesus. In Acts 11:26, the name originated in Antioch, a major city with a significant Gentile population, reflecting the growing non-Jewish membership in the church. It was possibly used with sarcasm or disdain at first, but the early believers embraced it as a badge of identity with their Savior.

In Acts 26:28, King Agrippa’s remark to Paul seems dismissive or skeptical, further suggesting that “Christian” may have carried negative social connotations. Yet, Peter’s use in 1 Peter 4:16 indicates that the title had become a meaningful, even glorious, identifier for those willing to suffer for the sake of Christ.

Suffering and the Christian Identity

Peter addresses suffering extensively in 1 Peter 4, contrasting it with the joy and glory that await faithful believers. He writes that suffering should not come because of wrongdoing, but if it comes as a Christian, it should be seen as participation in Christ’s own sufferings (1 Peter 4:13–16). This is a crucial point: suffering for the name of Christ is a mark of genuine discipleship and faith.

Being called a Christian, then, was not merely a nominal title. It signified a life shaped by allegiance to Jesus, marked by holiness, humility, and often persecution. The identity of a Christian was tightly bound to the message of the cross—suffering now with the hope of glory later.

Theological Significance

To be a Christian is to be united with Christ in both His death and resurrection. Romans 6:3-5 explains that those who are baptized into Christ share in His death and will also share in His resurrection. The term “Christian” thus implies more than belief—it implies union, transformation, and mission.

The Christian life is one of submission to Christ’s lordship (Luke 9:23), love for one another (John 13:35), and bold witness to the truth of the gospel (Acts 1:8). The identity carries with it both a divine calling and a public testimony.

Literary and Cultural Analysis

The early usage of the term “Christian” reflects a transition in the biblical narrative from a predominantly Jewish movement centered in Jerusalem to a global faith including Gentiles. The name reflects both community and opposition. It distinguished believers not just theologically, but socially and politically, particularly under the Roman Empire where allegiance to Christ was seen as a threat to loyalty to Caesar.

Peter’s use of the word in 1 Peter 4:16 reinforces this idea: Christians are those who endure ridicule, suffering, and alienation for bearing the name of Jesus. Yet in that suffering, they are not to be ashamed, but to glorify God—just as Jesus was not ashamed of the cross, but endured it for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2).

Cross-References

• Romans 8:17 – “Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings…”

• 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

• Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me…”

• Philippians 1:29 – “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.”

What It Means for Today’s Christians

For believers today, identifying as a Christian still means belonging to Christ—submitting to His lordship, living according to His Word, and reflecting His character. In some parts of the world, the term still attracts hostility and persecution. In others, it may be used casually or nominally. However, 1 Peter 4:16 reminds us that the true meaning of being a Christian involves courage, loyalty, and suffering for the sake of the gospel.

We are not called to hide our identity but to praise God that we bear the name. Being a Christian is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is a public declaration of who we belong to and what we live for.

How It Points to Jesus and the Gospel

To be a Christian is to be in Christ. Everything that defines the Christian—salvation, righteousness, adoption, mission, hope—flows from Christ Himself. The gospel is the good news that Jesus lived, died, and rose again so that sinners might be reconciled to God. Christians are those who have received this grace through faith and now follow Him as Lord and Savior.

Christians are little Christs, reflecting the image and example of Jesus to the world. Through their lives, they proclaim the gospel—not just in word, but in suffering, perseverance, and love.

Broader Biblical Themes

• Identity in Christ – The believer’s new name and new life in union with Jesus.

• Suffering and Glory – Present trials point to eternal rewards.

• Witness and Mission – The Christian name marks the bearer as one called to proclaim Christ.

• Perseverance – Bearing Christ’s name requires enduring hardship with faith and joy.

Reflection Questions

1. Do I embrace the name “Christian” with reverence and gratitude, understanding its cost and calling?

2. In what ways am I tempted to hide or downplay my identity in Christ?

3. How do I respond when I suffer for being a Christian—do I grumble or glorify God?

4. What does it mean for me to live as someone who truly belongs to Christ in my context today?

5. How can I encourage fellow Christians who are facing ridicule, opposition, or persecution for their faith?

Being called a Christian is not merely a label but a life-changing identity. It means belonging to Christ, bearing His name with honor, and walking faithfully—even through suffering—for the joy of knowing and glorifying Him.