Where was the name Christians first used?

The name “Christians” was first used in the city of Antioch, as recorded in the New Testament. This designation marked a significant development in the early Christian movement, reflecting both a recognition of the followers of Jesus as a distinct group and the spread of the gospel beyond Jewish communities. This essay will explore the historical and biblical context of the first use of the term “Christians,” examine the implications of this new identity, and reflect on its significance for the early church and for contemporary believers.

The Historical Context of Antioch

Antioch was a major city in ancient Syria, known for its cultural diversity and strategic importance. Founded by Seleucus I Nicator around 300 B.C., Antioch became one of the most significant cities of the Hellenistic world and later the Roman Empire. It was a bustling metropolis, home to a mix of Greeks, Jews, Romans, and other ethnic groups.

The First Use of “Christians” in Antioch

The term “Christians” is first mentioned in the Bible in Acts 11:26:

“And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” (Acts 11:26, NKJV)

This verse provides critical information about the origin of the name and its initial usage. To understand the full context, it is essential to look at the events leading up to this point.

The Spread of the Gospel to Antioch

Following the persecution that arose after the martyrdom of Stephen, believers were scattered, spreading the gospel as they went:

“Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 11:19-20, NKJV)

This passage indicates that while some Jewish Christians initially preached only to other Jews, others began sharing the gospel with Gentiles (non-Jews) in Antioch. This was a significant development, as it marked the beginning of a more inclusive outreach that would characterize the Christian mission.

The Role of Barnabas and Saul (Paul)

The Jerusalem church heard about the growing number of believers in Antioch and sent Barnabas to investigate and provide support:

“Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.” (Acts 11:22-24, NKJV)

Barnabas, recognizing the need for additional help, went to Tarsus to find Saul (Paul) and brought him back to Antioch. Together, they spent a year teaching the new believers:

“Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” (Acts 11:25-26, NKJV)

The Meaning and Significance of the Name “Christians”

The term “Christians” essentially means “followers of Christ” or “those belonging to Christ.” It likely originated as a designation by outsiders, perhaps as a way to label this growing movement distinctively. The use of the name signifies several important aspects of early Christian identity and mission.

1. Distinct Identity

The name “Christians” marked the followers of Jesus as a distinct group, separate from both mainstream Judaism and the various pagan religions of the time. This distinction was crucial as the early church sought to define its beliefs and practices in contrast to the surrounding culture.

2. Emphasis on Christ

By being called Christians, the early believers were identified explicitly with Christ (the Greek equivalent of “Messiah”). This identification emphasized their commitment to Jesus as the central figure of their faith, distinguishing them from other groups and highlighting the core of their belief system.

3. Recognition by Outsiders

The fact that the name originated in Antioch, a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population, suggests that the early church’s presence and activities were significant enough to be noticed by the broader community. This external recognition played a role in shaping the church’s public identity.

The Growth of the Church in Antioch

Antioch became a major center of early Christianity, playing a pivotal role in the spread of the gospel. The church in Antioch was known for its missionary zeal and inclusivity, as evidenced by the diverse background of its leaders and members:

“Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.” (Acts 13:1, NKJV)

This passage highlights the multicultural makeup of the church’s leadership, reflecting its broad outreach and acceptance of different ethnic groups.

The Sending of Missionaries

The church in Antioch played a crucial role in the missionary efforts of the early church. It was from Antioch that Paul and Barnabas were sent out on their first missionary journey:

“As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.” (Acts 13:2-3, NKJV)

This commissioning illustrates the church’s commitment to spreading the gospel beyond its own community, a commitment that would lead to the establishment of numerous other churches throughout the Roman Empire.

Theological Implications of the Name “Christians”

The designation “Christians” carries significant theological implications, both for the early church and for contemporary believers.

1. Christ-Centered Identity

Being called Christians emphasizes that the core of the believer’s identity is found in Christ. This Christ-centered focus is central to the faith, shaping how Christians understand themselves and their mission.

2. Unity of Jews and Gentiles

The early use of the term “Christians” in a city like Antioch highlights the universal nature of the gospel. The church’s growth among both Jews and Gentiles demonstrates that the message of Jesus transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, uniting believers in a shared identity.

3. Witness to the World

The name “Christians” signifies a public witness to the world. It reflects how the early believers were known and recognized by those around them, underscoring the importance of living out the faith in a way that is visible and impactful to others.

Contemporary Significance

The first use of the name “Christians” in Antioch has enduring significance for the church today. It serves as a reminder of the foundational aspects of Christian identity and mission.

1. Embracing a Christ-Centered Life

Modern believers are called to embrace a Christ-centered identity, letting their relationship with Jesus define and shape every aspect of their lives. This involves a commitment to discipleship, spiritual growth, and living according to the teachings of Christ.

2. Bearing Witness to the World

Just as the early Christians were known and identified by their faith, believers today are called to bear witness to the world through their actions, words, and way of life. This involves living out the principles of the gospel in everyday interactions and striving to make a positive impact in society.

Conclusion

The first use of the name “Christians” in Antioch, as recorded in Acts 11:26, marked a significant moment in the history of the early church. This designation highlighted the distinct identity of the followers of Jesus, emphasizing their commitment to Christ and their unity as a diverse community of believers.

The theological and practical implications of this name continue to resonate with contemporary Christians, reminding them of their Christ-centered identity and the call to bear witness to the world. By understanding and embracing these foundational aspects, believers can live out their faith in a way that honors God and furthers the mission of the church.

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In His service,
BibleAsk Team