The words Christian and Christians appear only three times in the Bible. The term first appears in Acts 11:26: “And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.”
The Greek word Christianos simply means a Christ-follower. This word is used only two more times in the Bible (Acts 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16). However, the kind of person it describes is found throughout Scripture.
The New Testament uses many words and phrases to identify followers of Christ, all of which function as synonyms for the term Christian. Each of the following terms helps deepen our understanding of what it truly means to be a Christian:
Believers emphasizes their faith and belief in God the Father and Jesus Christ. They are fully convinced that Jesus was who He claimed to be.
Disciples highlights that Christians are lifelong pupils of Jesus Christ—dedicated students and followers of His teachings and example.
Children of God reflects the truth that God is building a family and that Christians share a special Father-child relationship with God.
Brethren highlights the deep brotherly bond Christians share with other Christians in the Church of God.
Saints shows that Christians are to be holy and set apart from the world. They live godly lives amid a world of moral depravity.
Followers of “the Way” (Acts 9:2) points to the distinct lifestyle Christians are called to live. Christianity is a way of life.
Fellow workers declares Christians are to be active servants, setting examples of service and being engaged in the mission Christ gave the Church.
The elect reveals that Christians are individually called by God and have a special purpose in His plan.
Together, these terms paint a fuller picture of what it means to be a Christian.
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