God's Word is quite clear that one cannot just choose to be a Christian! There is a calling or invitation involved. Today many claim to be Christians yet don't really follow Jesus' teachings. While the first-century Christians did follow the teachings, practices and example of Jesus Christ at that time, since then the term has virtually lost its meaning-as it's usually not accompanied by the same way of life and understanding. The word was initially used by their detractors in a derogatory sense, but believers embraced the term as a badge of honor. Followers of Jesus Christ were first called 'Christians' in Antioch (Acts 11:26) because they believed in Christ and followed His example.
The word Christian is used three times in the New Testament (Acts 11:26 Acts 26:28 1 Peter 4:16).
What does being a Christian mean? Let's take a quick look at what the Bible says a Christian is. So what is a Christian? A couple of billion people on the planet all claim to be Christians, but their beliefs, doctrines and practices vary widely.
