Looking back to Antioch

Day 185

OT Reading: Job 26-28

NT Reading: Acts 11

"The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch." Acts 11:26b, NIV

Prior to this the followers of Jesus went by a myriad of names: disciples, followers of 'The Way', etc. It was not until here in the city of Antioch that followers of Jesus began to be called Christians.

It is believed by some that the title, "Christian" was not initially meant as an endearing term. As if perhaps some of the locals wished to use an insulting nickname with this new group, and simply started referring to them as "little Christ's", or as we know it, "Christians." However instead of being insulted, the followers of Jesus clung onto the name, happy to see themselves simply as little representations of Jesus himself.

Over the years, I'm afraid this title has lost a great deal of significance. The term Christian originally implied someone who had turned away from their previous life and was now striving and focused on following the way of Jesus first and foremost. Now many refer to themselves as Christians, not because they really follow Jesus, but because they attend church occasionally, were baptized once or simply have no other strong faith leanings.

In other words, while the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch; today many who are called 'Christians' are not really disciples.

I could back this up. I could go on and on, presenting data, facts, statistics, stories, and more. But I doubt that most anyone would have trouble believing me. And perhaps the most disturbing thing...is why we do not find this more disturbing.