1 Peter 4:16-19 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.… I. THE ORIGIN OF THE NAME (Acts 11:26). II. THE COMMONNESS OF THE APPELLATION. 1. In one aspect this commonness is astonishing, and should be convincing. "This is the finger of God." 2. In another view this commonness is reasonable. 3. In another view the commonness of the name is lamentable. The word Christian was once very significant and distinguishing. But, alas! in numberless instances now, it is not distinguishable at all. III. THE REAL IMPORT OF THIS TITLE. 1. A Christian is one who has a relation to Christ; not a professed, but a real relation — not a nominal, but a vital relation — yea, a very peculiar and preeminent relation, arising above every other you can mention; spiritual in its nature, and never ending in its duration; and deriving the possession and continuance of every enjoyment from Christ. 2. A Christian is a lover of Christ's doctrine. 3. A Christian is a lover of Christ's person. 4. A Christian is a copier of Christ's example. 5. A Christian is a dependent on Christ's mediation. 6. A Christian is expectant of Christ's coming. (W. Jay.) Parallel Verses KJV: Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. |
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