"…And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." –Acts 11:26

We live in a day when the word ‘Christian’ has been perverted into something other than its original meaning. Webster’s official definition is "anyone who believes in the teachings of Jesus Christ." Its secondary meaning is given as "someone who is commendably decent or generous." This is very broad and sadly reflects the misunderstanding of many today. Is it any wonder that the Scripture refers to the way of destruction as the ‘broad way?’ Matthew 7:13. "Many will say to me, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? An then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matthew 7:21,22.

Who is a Christian according to the Word of God?

1. A Christian is one who has been united to the Lord Jesus Christ. The key syllable is CHRIST. God the Father has CHOSEN the believer in His eternal Son from all eternity. God the Son has REDEEMED the child of God by His death. God the Holy Spirit has REGENERATED him causing him to believe on the Son.

I Peter 1:2- "Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied."

2. A true Christian is one whom God has received as ‘anointed’ or ‘set apart’ in His Son. The word ‘Christ’ means ‘the anointed One,’ Psalm 2:2. In the Old Testament, Aaron bore the names of the 12 tribes of Israel on his breastplate as He entered into the Holy of Holies for them. When Aaron was consecrated to the work as High Priest, he was set apart with the oil of consecration. The oil ran down his beard, across the breastplate, to the very hem of his garment (Psalm 133). He was the God appointed and approved representative of His people. He did not represent the nations, but HIS PEOPLE. Their standing and acceptance was based on his standing before God!

So it is for those who are in Christ. Christ is their representative. They have perfect standing before God based on who He is and His righteousness, Hebrews 9:24-28. Only such may rightly bear the name "CHRISTian," and do reflect His character in their walk.