CHRISTIAN

What is the Meaning of the Term Christian in the Bible?
"Christian" is the name given to the disciples of Christ in Antioch of Syria following the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas (Acts 11:26).

The verb chrematizo ("called") in this passage suggests a divinely given name. Some think that "called" may also be a technical term that hints that it was a disciple's business to serve Christ (W. E. Vine). 

Herod Agrippa II, a ruler before whom Paul appeared, declared that the apostle, with forceful persuasion, was making a case for becoming a Christian (Acts 26:28). And Peter proudly contended that those who suffer for the name "Christian" should glorify God thereby (1 Pet. 4:16). 

There is no reason to believe that the early Christians adopted the name for themselves or that their enemies thrust the appellation upon them. It is a tragedy that this sacred title has been replaced today by so many sectarian designations (e.g., Catholic, Lutheran, Baptist, etc.).

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Adapted from the book "Bible Words and Theological Terms Made Easy" by Wayne Jackson