Now those who were scattered as a result of the trouble that occurred because of Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. They proclaimed the word only to Jews. Among them were some people from Cyprus and Cyrene. They entered Antioch and began to proclaim the good news about the Lord Jesus also to Gentiles. The Lord’s power was with them, and a large number came to believe and turned to the Lord. When the church in Jerusalem heard about this, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw evidence of God’s grace, he was overjoyed and encouraged everyone to remain fully committed to the Lord. Barnabas responded in this way because he was a good man, whom the Holy Spirit had endowed with exceptional faith. A considerable number of people were added to the Lord. Barnabas went to Tarsus in search of Saul. When he found him, he brought him to Antioch. They were there for a whole year, meeting with the church and teaching large numbers of people. It was in Antioch where the disciples were first labeled “Christians.” (Acts 11:19-26, CEB)
In the beginning, those who followed Jesus were called Followers of the Way. It wasn’t until later that they came to be called Christians.
Sometimes in the world today, I hesitate to say I am a Christian, and lean more towards a follower of Jesus, or a Disciple of Christ.
We should focus our journey on doing what Christ called us to do. Love like he did.
Showing love will help bring the kingdom to fulfillment.
Christian.
Follower of the Way
Disciple of Christ.
Whatever we are called, we need to be about love. Love for all.
That is how the world will know who and whose we are.
Loving People. Loving God.
aSacredRebel 