Difference Between Disciples and Christians

The word “Christian” or Christianos (Greek) only occurs three times in the NT (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1Peter 4:16), meaning Christ like, or a follower of Christ; while a “disciple” or mathētēs (Greek) occurs hundreds of times in the NT. “Christian” is more of an adjective describing whatever others identify with Christ as followers of the Way. “The disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:26 KJV). “Disciple” emphasizes the discipline or practice of obeying the teachings of Christ. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV). Though we do not mind being labeled “Christian” by others, for lack of a better way of describing us, but we prefer the title “disciple,” since it emphasizes the discipline of practicing obedience to the teachings of Christ. “And why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46 KJV). LORD, teach us to be the practicing kind of those who profess Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. 

Opinion: UFOs Are Not Extraterrestrial

If UFOs are demonic lying wonders, then SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) is misdirected. “Even him [Antichrist], whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders” (2Thessalonians 2:9 KJV). What is commonly labeled as ET (extraterrestrial) has been addressed throughout the ages as “lying wonders” or demonic. Demons are disembodied spirits resulting from the Nephilim killed in the Flood, where the Nephilim are the product of Fallen Angels, who cohabitated with human females (Genesis 6:2,4). Science fiction movie script? No, Hollywood is only repeating the discussion that has been around for millennia. This perspective may actually be the key to explaining the conundrum of how a charismatic world leader [Antichrist] can usher in a period of World Peace, especially for Israel, which has defied Arab, Christian, and Jew. “And he [Antichrist] shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate” (Daniel 9:27). Lord Jesus, come quickly. Amen. 

Light of the World

Jesus said, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid” (Matthew 5:14 KJV). People will react differently to the light. Some will “see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 KJV), while others “loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19 KJV). As part of the Restraining Force of good over evil, the Holy Spirit exerts that influence through His children. Jesus also claimed, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12; 9:5 KJV). Let us shine God’s light in dark places, attempting to do good, and not further blinding the world with just harsh light in their eyes. Pray for love to accompany the light!