Something I have been struggling with lately is the term "Christian". Most people with the same basic beliefs as me would call themselves a Christan. Why do we call ourselves Christians? It's funny when you begin to think about it because most people have no idea where the term "Christian" comes from. From talking with professors and doing reading of my own, I have gathered what seems to be an accurate explanation of the word "Christian". In the Greek, it means "little Christ". My theology professor, Dr. Eckley, said that in the time not too long after Christ's death people were many times deemed "little ______" (depending who or what they followed). For example, some people were called Herodians because they supported Herodian rulers. Therefore, they were "little Herods". I really liked this thought of Christians being little Christs. At the same time, however, it disturbed me. How many people claim to be Christians, yet show no signs of Christ-likeness? I can imagine that God would be ashamed at these people claiming to be "little Christs".
This issue is the reason why I have started to dislike the term Christian for myself. I feel ashamed that I would even attempt to compare myself to Christ. I am not worthy of being called a "little Christ"; in fact, no one is. That is why I have started to detour from the term "Christian". Now I want to make it clear that I find nothing wrong with people who call themselves Christian. I just feel for myself, that I would rather be called a follower of Christ, or follower of the Way, as many were deemed in the New testament (Acts 9:2; Acts 24:14, 22). Another reason for detouring from the term "Christian" is that many people throughout the world, especially Middle Eastern countries, call America a Christian country. I understand why they say this, but I feel that America is far from being Christian. I don't want to be seen as the same religion as many people in America. Lastly, like Muslims, Christians are often thought of as all thinking the same. This couldn't be further from the truth. There is such a vast difference between some people that call themselves Christians. I want to be known for my faith, not someone else's.
I would like to know how other people feel about the name "Christian". What is your reaction to the origin of the word? If you are a follower or Christ, how do you feel about being called a Christian? I am especially interested in the opinions of people who are not followers of Christ: If you are not a follower of Christ, what does the term "Christian" bring to mind? Does the word "Christian" have a positive meaning? Anything that you thought while reading this post would be greatly appreciated. Please comment!
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