Are you a Christian? I’ve been asked that many times. And the answer is of course, yes. I am a Christian and a Christian pastor. I have noticed at certain times, people have been embarrassed to call themselves Christians (maybe because the behavior of some who associate with the name). I am not ashamed of the name or the gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to all who believe, to the Jew first and then to the Gentile. The term means follower of the Christ (Christ means Messiah, anointed One, the expected Son of David who would rescue Israel). I follow the Messiah! There is some speculation that the term was originally not a compliment, but a way for Greeks to deride His followers. We’ve been known as “brethren”, “disciples” and even “people of the way”. The name is not so important, Jesus is. He is our model in all things and our guide for life. He is our source and our goal. For a good reference on the how we got the name Christian: https://www.gotquestions.org/meaning-of-Christian.html
And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a large number who believed turned to the Lord. The news about them reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas off to Antioch. Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord; for he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and faith. And considerable numbers were added to the Lord. And he left for Tarsus to look for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers of people; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts 11:21-26 NASB
How well do I represent the name and will of the Savior? Do I find myself shrinking back from the truth?
God, as this day begins- So much ahead that matters greatly. I pray that You will lead and guide. May I encounter those who need Your love and encouragement. I pause to pray for the people of the Ukraine. Strengthen and protect them. Bring about Your righteousness. Thwart the plans of Your enemies. Draw many to faith and salvation. Give all leaders wisdom from above. Replace their earthly, sensual, self-seeking ways with Yours. For You can move the heart of kings like a sprinkler on a lawn. And finally, Lord, may those of us who take the name Christian, wear it well in good times and in bad.
