Believers, Christians, or Saints: What Should Followers of Jesus Call Ourselves?

Take Poll: How do you identify as a follower of Jesus Christ?

• Believer
• Christian
• Saint
• Other

The reason for discussing this topic is the numerous conversations I've had with individuals who show uncertainty or bias towards certain terms commonly used in the Christian faith.

1. Some argue that the term "Christian" has lost its specific meaning and avoid using it.

   
   

2. Others view "believer" as a diluted or compromising label.

   
   

3. Even still there are those who insist that "saints" is the most appropriate term.

Given these perspectives, the question arises: what should followers of Jesus call ourselves?

First of all, who is Jesus?

Jesus is the Son of God (John 3:16, John 8:58; John 10:33).

He is the fulfillment of more than 300 messianic prophecies in the Old Testament. The term "Messiah" originates from the Hebrew word "mashiach," which means "anointed one" or "chosen one." In Greek, this is translated as "Christos," or in English, "Christ."

Jesus Christ took on human form (God in the flesh). His bodily death on the cross is the atonement for humanity's sins and makes Him the perfect mediator between God and humans (1 Timothy 2:5).

Salvation comes only by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, who declared, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6).

Okay then, what should His followers be Called?

In the King James Version of the Bible, we encounter the term "believer" in Acts 5:14 and "Christian" in Acts 11:26.

These references highlight that a believer and Christian essentially refer to the same group: those who acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, the sole path to God, and follow Him.

What about "Saints?"

The word "saint" stems from the Greek "hagios," translating to "consecrated to God, holy, sacred." In the New Testament, it often appears in its plural form, "saints."

While the Roman Catholic interpretation places saints in heaven, the Biblical context portrays saints as individuals on earth, united in Christ.

Although being recognized as "saints" emphasizes our identity in the body of Christ, it lacks broader recognition of our faith's foundation to the world.

The Reason Why I Use the term Christian (Christ'ian).

While there isn't a definitive answer, the term Christian, or "Christ'ian" as I sometimes like to write it, holds a profound connection to the Founder of our faith, Jesus Christ.

Furthermore, "Christian" highlights our commitment to Christ (the Messiah) in the name, showcasing not only our acknowledgment but also our dedication to Him and His teachings.

Conclusion

Remember, regardless of the name you choose, what truly matters is believing in Jesus for salvation and the unwavering commitment to live out His teachings in every aspect of your life (Matthew 5:16).

May the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you.