1 Peter 4:15-16
Introduction
The word “Christian” is one of the most recognized words in the religious world today—and one of the most misunderstood. Some use it to describe a culture, a political group, or even a nation. But when the New Testament uses the term, it does so with clear meaning and divine authority. It is found only three times (Acts 11:26; Acts 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16), and always in reference to individuals who had obeyed the gospel and were living under the lordship of Jesus Christ. If God gave the name, then we must seek to understand what it means to wear it.
To be a Christian is not simply to believe in God or live a moral life. It is to belong to Christ, to be in Christ, and to live for Christ—every day, in every place, and through every decision.
I. A Christian Is a Priest
Many assume that priests belong to a special religious class. But Scripture says that all Christians are priests. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9, NASB).
In the Old Testament, priests offered sacrifices at the temple. Today, Christians offer themselves. “Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship” (Romans 12:1). We are not spectators in worship. We are the offering.
Jesus has made us “a kingdom, priests to His God and Father” (Revelation 1:6). To be a Christian is to live a life of devotion, service, and surrender.
II. A Christian Is a Believer
Faith is not a mere opinion—it is trust that moves the heart and transforms the life. “The one who believes in the Son has eternal life; but the one who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him” (John 3:36).
Belief without obedience is not biblical faith. James says it clearly: “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26). The heroes of Hebrews 11 were people of action. They believed—and they moved. A Christian is someone whose faith is visible in their obedience.
III. A Christian Is a Disciple
A disciple is more than a follower; he is a learner and a student. Jesus said, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples” (John 8:31). A Christian doesn’t rely on feelings or traditions but clings to the Word.
Paul told Timothy, “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). We are shaped by the Word of God. A Christian opens his Bible—not just on Sundays, but every day—because he is still learning at the feet of the Master.
IV. A Christian Is Holy
To be holy is to be set apart. It is to live in contrast to the world—not in arrogance, but in purity and purpose. “But like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior” (1 Peter 1:15).
This is not about pretending to be perfect. “If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves” (1 John 1:8). But the Christian does not make peace with sin. He fights it, flees from it, and seeks cleansing through Christ. Holiness is not the absence of struggle, but the presence of repentance.
V. A Christian Is a Sacrifice
Paul wrote, “But I strictly discipline my body and make it my slave” (1 Corinthians 9:27). A Christian is not driven by pleasure, popularity, or personal ambition. He has been crucified with Christ. “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me…” (Galatians 2:20).
We do not belong to ourselves. We belong to the One who died for us. A Christian asks not, “What do I want to do?” but “What would Jesus have me do?”
VI. A Christian Is a Light
Jesus declared, “You are the light of the world… Let your light shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14,16).
Light is visible. It makes a difference. A Christian cannot live in darkness and claim fellowship with God. “If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth” (1 John 1:6).
Christians light the world—not with their own brilliance—but by reflecting the light of Christ.
VII. A Christian Is a Child of God
A Christian is not merely a religious person. He is part of God’s family. “For you are all sons and daughters of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ” (Galatians 3:26–27).
This identity gives us access to God, assurance of hope, and the promise of inheritance. “See how great a love the Father has given us, that we would be called children of God; and in fact we are!” (1 John 3:1). We are no longer orphans—we are heirs.
Conclusion
What is a Christian? The world offers many answers. But only one answer matters—the one given by God in His Word.
A Christian is a priest, offering his life in worship.
A believer, trusting and obeying the gospel.
A disciple, growing in the Word.
A holy one, set apart from the world.
A sacrifice, laying down self at the foot of the cross.
A light, shining truth in a dark world.
A child of God, clothed in Christ and living in His love.
Can you honestly say, by this definition, “I am a Christian”? If not, the Lord invites you to become one today. Obey the gospel. Be born again. Take up your cross. And wear the name Christian—not as a title, but as a testimony.
“For there is no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Will you come to Him now?
The Simple Gospel 