Acts 11:26 Little Christians

Acts 11:26

And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And for an entire year, they met with the church and taught considerable numbers, and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.  

The Word Christian first appears in the Holy Bible, in Luke’s Acts of the Apostles 11:26. Before that, the followers of the Lord would call themselves bondservant. Not many know the word “Christian” was originally an insult from those who refuse to accept a man could be born from a virgin. The word Christian only appears three times in scripture. When the word Christian is used in Acts 11:26, it is used to mock and insult a follower of the Lord. You will notice in Acts 11:26 the followers of Jesus Christ were called Christians. They did not call themselves that; the word was unheard of until the followers of Christ kept increasing. The idea a man could be born from a virgin was foolish to the common person. Also, to the ordinary person, it is unacceptable that a man could have risen from the grave and death. So, the word Christian means little followers of Jesus’ teaching but also means we believe you are stupid, little bastards. Stupid because Christ’s teaching is unacceptable, little because you Christians are only a small band of people. Bastard because you say your teacher and savior has no earthly father and is the son of an invisible God. As the teachings of Christ increase and as the apostle Paul’s reputation grows, he is seen as an insane man.

Acts 26:24 While Paul was stating these things in his defense, Festus said in a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind! Your great learning is driving you insane.” 25 But Paul said, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; on the contrary, I am speaking out with truthful and rational words. 26 For the king knows about these matters, and I also speak to him with confidence, since I am persuaded that none of these things escape his notice; for this has not been done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the Prophets? I know that you believe.” 28 Agrippa replied to Paul, “In a short time you are going to persuade me to make a Christian of myself.” 29 And Paul said, “I would wish to God that even in a short or long time not only you, but also all who hear me this day would become such as I myself am, except for these chains.”

Of course, the teaching of Jesus Christ sounds foolish to the non-believers and still does. Many scientists and very educated people call religion foolishness. They may not label themselves Christian but will say, “Oh my God,” in exciting moments. We Christians should know very well that non-believers see the gospel of Jesus as foolish because the Bible tells us so. When Agrippa asks Paul, will you make me a stupid Christian like you? Paul replies,” I wish that you would.” The term Christian grows as fast as the gospel of Jesus that even the apostle Peter writes about in his epistle. He tells those who read his encouraging words to welcome the insult of being called a Christian. It means you are being noticed as followers of Christ, and God will reward you for your suffering. God bless all you Christians; Christ loves you, and so do I. His bondservant, Samuel Jerry Head. 

1 Peter 4:14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed because the Spirit of glory, and of God, rests upon you. 15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner? 19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God are to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

https://anchor.fm/bondservantsam/episodes/Acts-1126-Little-Christians-e1s1bns