Topical Encyclopedia The term "Christian" is used to describe followers of Jesus Christ, and it is first mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible. The designation "Christian" signifies those who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior and strive to live according to His teachings. The calling of believers is a central theme in the New Testament, emphasizing the divine initiative in the salvation and sanctification of individuals.Origin of the Term "Christian" The term "Christian" appears in the New Testament in three instances. The first occurrence is in Acts 11:26, where it is recorded, "And when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch." This passage indicates that the term was initially used by outsiders to describe the followers of Christ in Antioch, a major center of early Christianity. The Calling of Believers The concept of being "called" is deeply rooted in the New Testament, where it is often associated with God's sovereign choice and purpose. Romans 8:28-30 states, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This passage highlights the divine calling as part of God's redemptive plan, emphasizing predestination, justification, and glorification. The Nature of the Calling The calling of believers is both a privilege and a responsibility. In 1 Peter 2:9 , the apostle Peter writes, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." This verse underscores the transformative nature of the calling, as believers are set apart to declare the praises of God and live as His representatives in the world. Living Out the Calling The New Testament provides guidance on how Christians are to live in response to their calling. Ephesians 4:1-3 exhorts believers, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." This passage emphasizes the ethical and communal aspects of the Christian calling, encouraging believers to embody virtues that reflect their identity in Christ. The Universal Call to Salvation While the calling of believers is specific, the New Testament also speaks of a universal call to salvation. In 1 Timothy 2:3-4 , it is written, "This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." This reflects the inclusive nature of the gospel message, inviting all people to respond to God's offer of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Conclusion The calling of Christians is a profound aspect of their identity, rooted in the divine initiative and purpose. It encompasses both the individual and communal dimensions of faith, urging believers to live in a manner that reflects their status as God's chosen people. Through their calling, Christians are empowered to bear witness to the transformative power of the gospel and to participate in God's redemptive work in the world. Nave's Topical Index Acts 11:26And when he had found him, he brought him to 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. Nave's Topical Index Acts 26:28 1 Peter 4:16 Greek 2583. kanon -- a rule, standard ... used for a summary of orthodox Christian doctrine in ... early Church (its "consensual theology") -- called "the rule ... His ; and the of all believers at Christ's ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2583.htm - 7k Library Corinthians. Calling on the Name The Christian Ministry, and Its Relation to the Christian ... On Christian Liberty Of the Church On the Catholic Church, Her Parts and Relations The Congregationalists. On the Union of Believers with Christ On the Predestination of Believers The Temporal Afflictions of Believers are not Correctly Termed " ... Christianity Misunderstood by Believers. Resources Questions about the Christian Life (All) | GotQuestions.orgIs the United States a Christian nation? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean for a society to be post-Christian? | GotQuestions.org Christian: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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