Definition and Identity
Believers in Jesus, often referred to as Christians, are individuals who have faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of humanity. This faith is rooted in the belief that Jesus' death and resurrection provide the means for salvation and eternal life. The term "Christian" was first used in Antioch, as recorded in Acts 11:26: "And when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught a great number of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch."

Core Beliefs
Believers in Jesus adhere to several core tenets of faith, including the divinity of Christ, the authority of Scripture, and the necessity of faith for salvation. John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of Christian belief: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Faith and Works
While salvation is understood to be a gift of grace through faith, believers are also called to live out their faith through good works. Ephesians 2:8-10 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life."

The Role of the Holy Spirit
Believers in Jesus receive the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to live a life that reflects Christ's teachings. The Holy Spirit acts as a guide, comforter, and source of strength. In John 14:26, Jesus promises, "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you."

Community and Fellowship
The early church exemplified the importance of community among believers. Acts 2:42 describes their fellowship: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This sense of community continues to be a vital aspect of the Christian faith, as believers gather for worship, prayer, and mutual support.

Mission and Evangelism
Believers in Jesus are called to share the Gospel with others, fulfilling the Great Commission as instructed by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Persecution and Endurance
Throughout history, believers have faced persecution for their faith. Jesus warned His followers of this reality in John 15:18-20: "If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world." Despite persecution, believers are encouraged to endure and remain steadfast in their faith.

Eternal Hope
Believers in Jesus hold the hope of eternal life, a promise that is central to their faith. This hope is not only for the future but also provides strength and encouragement in the present. As stated in 1 Peter 1:3-4, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you."