As more and more souls were saved by the Grace of God … they naturally became known as a certain type people.

In Jerusalem it seems the Pharisees and Elders (including the High Priest) called them “Nazarenes.” For example, in Acts 24:5 they called Paul “a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.”

Because Jesus was from Nazareth and the because His Disciples followed Him so meticulously. That’s why the Religious Machine of that day (with derision) named the Believers “Nazarenes,” linking them to their dear Master/Lord/Saviour.

But outside of Jerusalem, out in Gentile country, it seems another name attached itself to these men who loved our Lord. “Christians,” they said. I base my conclusion on Acts 11:26 where we are clearly told … “And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.”

The Descriptor simply means “like Christ.”

But more specifically (grammatically and etymologically) it means “one upon whom oil has been poured!” One who has been and still is anointed with the Holy Spirit of God! Thus, one whose lifestyle matches that of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. (Who certainly was Spirit filled.) Being like Him as much as is humanly possible, anyway.

And likely this too. The term “Christians” as first used was (like “Nazarenes”) derogatory. The public meant it as mockery! (“Like the murdered One, on that Cross, the convicted Criminal Jesus!”) Yet these new Believers wore the Name gladly! With honor!

In fact, we still do!

Question today, and the point of today’s Lesson: Am I living like Jesus? Are you living that life as well?

If not, we should make the necessary changes!

So that the people who are watching us (and many are) will be forced to admit … “Christians!”

They are really “Christians!”

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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