Faith & Reason Nexus

The word “Christian” has endured numerous challenges, much like the man who traveled the Jericho Road and was beset by thieves and robbers. Over the years, the term has been subjected to various attempts to undermine its true meaning and significance. Some of these attacks include:

• Discrediting it
  People have attempted to tarnish the reputation of Christians, misrepresenting their beliefs and actions.
• Persecuting it
  Christians have faced opposition and even violence for their faith throughout history.
• Denying it
  There are those who have denied the relevance and truth of Christianity, dismissing it as outdated or false.
• Outlawing it
  In some countries and regions, Christianity has been banned or restricted by law, trying to silence its voice.
• Changing it
  Some have tried to redefine Christianity to suit their own agendas, distorting its original teachings.
• Destroying it
  Efforts to eradicate Christianity through force or deception have been seen in various historical contexts.
• Cursing it
  Christianity has been the subject of mockery and cursing, as those who oppose it attempt to discredit its message.
• Ignoring it
  Some people have simply chosen to ignore Christianity, turning a blind eye to its teachings and its followers.
• Abusing it
  Others have abused the name of Christianity for personal gain, using it as a tool for power or manipulation.
• Laughing at it
  Christianity has often been ridiculed by those who mock its principles, followers, and practices.
• Slandering it
  False accusations and misinformation have often been spread to tarnish the image of Christianity and its believers.

Despite all of these efforts, the term “Christian” still remains in THE BOOK—the Bible—where it is recorded as the name given to the followers of Christ.

• Acts 11:26 – “And when he had found him, he brought him unto 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.”
• Acts 26:28 – “Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”
• 1 Peter 4:16 – “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.”

Though the word “Christian” has been attacked in various ways, it remains a powerful identifier for those who follow Christ and live according to His teachings, enduring through all challenges to this day.