Op-ed by David T. Crum | Photo: Adobe Stock
While the number of people who claim Christianity in the U.S. and Europe continues to drop, a rather fundamental question needs to be asked: What is the definition of a Christian?
Historically, the individual known as a Christian followed the religion of Christianity. They laid the core doctrine of the Christian faith upon their hearts. In short, the Christians followed Jesus Christ and His teachings.
19th-century Presbyterian Pastor William S. Plumer remarked, “The places where it [term Christian] occurs are Acts 11:26; Acts 26:28, and 1 Peter 4:16.”[1]
“And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. (Ac. 11:26)”
“Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. (Ac. 26:28)”
“Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. (1Pe. 4:16)”
Christians make up the body of Christ. While each denomination and sect of the faith separates believers in theology, followers of the Lord unite, delighted to receive the title of Christian.
Intriguingly, the term may have been initially an insult, comparable to the historical use of the word Puritan. Plumer wrote, “I once heard a sermon on Acts 11:26, in which it was assumed that the name Christian, like that of Puritan or Methodist, was first given in reproach, and by enemies; and was afterward adopted by the disciples of our Lord, as a name which they were willing to bear.”[2]
Today, the designation of the word is not an insult; it is the most earnest title a person can attribute to their life. The label bears significant responsibility, as the connotation implies the individual serves their Lord and Savior. In a more modern definition, Millard J. Erickson provides the meaning, “One who believes in Christ and seeks to live according to his teachings.”[3]
While historically, the title may have equated to an insult, today, being a Christian administers tremendous responsibility. In actuality, it challenges people’s priorities, principles, and overall livelihood. Being a Christian further signifies the cost of following Christ, placing Him as the chief purpose in life, and surrendering to His will.
Life as a Christian requires one to bear the cross and follow Jesus Christ. On the responsibilities, Plumer argued, “They love and adore Christ. They are ready to die for Christ. He is their Saviour and Redeemer. They are not ashamed of Him, and He is not ashamed of them.”[4]
Undoubtedly, people can misuse the term Christian, as well as those who use it liberally, without admiration for Jesus Christ and His saving power. Nevertheless, the Lord knows who His sheep are. The Christian follows Jesus Christ and contends for the faith. The Christian is separate from this world (John 15:19) and prioritizes his life on Christ. Plumer challenges believers by asking:
Are you a Christian; a real, living, firm, consistent Christian? You have the name, but are you worthy of it? Is your union with Christ close and vital? Do you live for Him? Do you live to Him? Do you wish to live and reign with Him? Have you duly considered the importance of the name you bear? It means much more than being born in a Christian land. Worthily to bear the name of a Christian, is the greatest honor and the greatest happiness ever attained on earth.[5]
[1] William S. Plumer, The Christian, (Harrisonburg: Sprinkle Publications, 1997), 1.
[2] Plumer, The Christian, 1.
[3] Millard J. Erickson, The Concise Dictionary of Christian Theology, (Wheaton: Crossway),33.
[4] Plumer, The Christian, 2.
[5] Ibid., 4.
