The Church in Antioch: Where Believers Were First Called "Christians"
The ancient city of Antioch, nestled in the Roman province of Syria, was a bustling metropolis of commerce, culture, and diverse populations. Yet, beyond its geopolitical significance, Antioch holds an unparalleled place in the annals of Christian history. It was here, in this vibrant urban center, that the fledgling movement of believers in Jesus Christ truly began to shed its Jewish chrysalis and emerge as a distinct, universal faith. More profoundly, it was in Antioch that the followers of the Way were first bestowed with a name that would define them for millennia: "Christians." The story of the church in Antioch, as recorded in the book of Acts, is a testament to God's sovereign plan, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the transformative impact of the Gospel on human hearts.
The Fleeing Saints and the Spreading Word
The genesis of the Antiochian church was rooted in adversity. Following the martyrdom of Stephen in Jerusalem, a fierce persecution erupted, scattering believers far and wide from Judea. As Acts 8:1 recounts, "And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles." This forced dispersion, however, was not a setback but a divinely orchestrated catalyst for the spread of the Gospel. Among those scattered were some who travelled as far as Antioch.
Initially, these dispersed believers preached the word only to Jews, in keeping with traditional practices. However, a pivotal shift occurred in Antioch. Acts 11:20 records, "And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus." This bold step—preaching Christ to Gentiles—was met with remarkable success, signifying God's approval of their expansive vision. The scripture affirms, "And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord."
And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.
This spontaneous outpouring of the Spirit among Gentiles in Antioch marked a new frontier for the Gospel, confirming the inclusive nature of Christ's salvation for all peoples.
Barnabas: The Son of Consolation's Arrival
News of these extraordinary events in Antioch reached the mother church in Jerusalem. Recognizing the significance of the burgeoning Gentile church, the apostles wisely dispatched a man of impeccable character and spiritual discernment: Barnabas. Joseph, surnamed Barnabas by the apostles (meaning "son of consolation"), was known for his generosity and deep faith. His arrival in Antioch was a testament to his God-given calling. When he saw the grace of God at work, he was exceedingly glad.
Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
Barnabas’s presence was a powerful affirmation and encouragement to the new believers. His character—"a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith"—was instrumental in nurturing the young congregation, leading to further growth and stability within the church.
Saul's Call to Antioch
Recognizing the immense potential and the rapid expansion of the church in Antioch, Barnabas understood the need for robust teaching and leadership. He instinctively knew of one person uniquely gifted for this task: Saul of Tarsus. Saul, who would later be known as Paul, had been converted years prior and was now in Tarsus, awaiting God's specific call to ministry among the Gentiles. Barnabas, with prophetic foresight, went to Tarsus to seek Saul, bringing him to Antioch.
Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 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.
For a whole year, Barnabas and Saul dedicated themselves to teaching the growing congregation. This period of intensive instruction in the doctrines of Christ and the apostles was foundational. It grounded the believers in sound truth, preparing them for the unique identity they were about to receive and the significant role they would play in the unfolding drama of redemption.
"And the Disciples Were Called Christians First in Antioch"
It was during this period of robust teaching and flourishing growth that a momentous event occurred, one that would forever mark the identity of Christ's followers. Acts 11:26 concludes its thought by stating, "And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." This simple declaration carries profound weight. The term "Christian" was likely not a self-proclaimed title but rather a designation given by outsiders, perhaps initially derisively, to identify these people who were so passionately devoted to "Christos" (the Greek word for Messiah). Prior to this, they were known as "disciples," "believers," "saints," or followers of "the Way."
The name "Christian" means "belonging to Christ" or "Christ's party." It signified that their allegiance was solely to Jesus Christ, setting them apart from both Judaism and paganism. It was a clear declaration of their identity and their central devotion. This new name underscored the distinctiveness of their faith—it was not merely a sect of Judaism, but a new covenant community founded upon the person and work of the Son of God. To be called a "Christian" in Antioch meant that one's life, beliefs, and practices were so thoroughly permeated by Christ that it was the most fitting descriptor. It was a recognition of their Christ-centric faith and the lifestyle that flowed from it, a lifestyle that was visibly different from the world around them.
A Thriving, Generous, and Missionary Church
The church in Antioch was not merely a place where a name was coined; it was a vibrant, active, and exemplary community of faith. Its characteristics stand as a model for the church throughout history:
The church in Antioch became a significant hub for evangelism and teaching, continually receiving and sending out missionaries. It was a dynamic center from which the light of the Gospel radiated to the nations.
Lessons from Antioch for the Church Today
The story of the church in Antioch offers timeless principles and powerful lessons for believers and congregations in every generation:
- Resilience in Persecution: The Antioch church grew out of persecution, demonstrating that adversity can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and outreach.
- Unwavering Evangelistic Zeal: They were not afraid to cross cultural barriers, preaching the Lord Jesus to Gentiles, showing the universal scope of the Gospel.
- Spirit-Led Leadership and Collaboration: The partnership of Barnabas and Saul, guided by the Holy Spirit, illustrates the power of diverse gifts working together for God's glory.
- Commitment to Sound Doctrine: The "whole year" of teaching by Barnabas and Saul underscores the importance of grounding believers in the truth of God's Word.
- Radical Generosity: Their willingness to send relief to distant brethren highlights the call to practical love and mutual support within the global body of Christ.
- A Heart for Missions: Antioch's role as the sending church for the first great missionary journey reminds us that the church's primary call is to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
- Embracing Our Identity in Christ: To be called "Christian" is not merely a label but a profound identity that defines who we are and whose we are. It calls us to live lives that reflect the character and teachings of Christ.
Conclusion
The church in Antioch stands as a monumental example of early Christianity's vitality and expansion. It was a church born of persecution, nurtured by devoted leaders, grounded in sound doctrine, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Its willingness to embrace Gentiles, its profound generosity, and its pioneering missionary spirit set the stage for the global spread of the Gospel. Above all, it was here that believers were first called "Christians," a name that encapsulates their absolute devotion to Jesus Christ and continues to define His followers to this very day. May the lessons from Antioch inspire the church today to live up to this glorious name, shining brightly as beacons of Christ's love and truth in a world desperately in need of Him.