Χριστιανός (Christianos)
Christianos
Christian
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun Christianos identifies a follower of Jesus Christ. This term first appeared in Antioch as a label used by outsiders to describe the group of disciples who gathered there (Acts 11:26). It was not a self-designation but a descriptive title given by the surrounding pagan society.
Its formation is straightforward: it takes the root Christos and adds the suffix -ianos, indicating belonging or association. This structure parallels other Roman-era terms for adherents of a leader or philosophy. The word appears only three times in the New Testament, highlighting its specific historical context rather than serving as a general theological category.
Later usage in 1 Peter 4:16 and Acts 26:28 shows how the label persisted even when it carried social stigma. In these passages, being called a Christian is linked to suffering for the name, suggesting that the term had evolved from a mere descriptive nickname into an identity that could invite persecution.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word Christianos simply means belonging to Christ. It began as a label used by outsiders in Antioch to describe those who followed Jesus. Over time, it became a proud identity for believers, even when it brought social pressure or hardship.
When Peter wrote to early Christians facing suffering, he encouraged them not to be ashamed of this name. Instead, they were to glorify God through their faithful witness. This reminds us that our identity in Christ is more important than human approval.
Today, being called a Christian means sharing in the story of Jesus. It invites us to live with integrity and hope, knowing that we belong to Him no matter what others say or do.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a Christian,1×
- a Christian1×
- Christians.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Χριστιανός,1×
- Χριστιανὸν1×
- Χριστιανούς.¶1×
Key Verses
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Acts 11:26
When he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they were gathered together with the assembly, and taught many people. The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.
This verse marks the first recorded use of the term Christianos, showing how outsiders identified the new group in Antioch.
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Acts 26:28
Agrippa said to Paul, “With a little persuasion are you trying to make me a Christian?”
Agrippa’s question reveals that being a Christian was seen as a distinct and persuasive way of life that could influence even rulers.
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I Peter 4:16
But if one of you suffers for being a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this matter.
Peter connects the name directly to suffering, urging believers to take pride in it rather than feel ashamed when criticized for their faith.