The Bible tells us that they did not have to call themselves Christians but instead their actions, born out as good works, caused others to see them as truly being Christians. They were called Christians by the people around them as the result of their actions that brought to mind Jesus Christ. People during those times knew of Jesus first hand so they would know if someone was truly being Christ-like.
...And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. Acts 11:26
Contrary to this, today we see the opposite occurring. We have hypocrites running around living sin filled lives and professing themselves as being Christians.
It is sad when nonbelievers charge the church as being filled with hypocrites because they are actually correct.
The Bible pointed this out clearly as well:
They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him , being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. Titus 1:16
For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, [3] Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, [4] Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; [5] Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:2-5
Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [16] Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? [17] Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. [19] Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [20] Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. [21] Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? [23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew 7:15-23
This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. Matthew 15:8
With all this said, are you one of those hypocrites the Bible speaks of?
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