“Undenominational Christianity…” It is a term which applies to those who are trying to be nothing more (or less) than just Christians. An effort to urge all Christians to worship and serve in the way God is pleased based on a plea to unite us all with a “thus says the Lord”. One of the areas in which the religious world must unite is in the name(s) by which we are described.

What is in a Name? (Acts 4:12)

“What is in a Name?” “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12 (NKJV). Today we will consider why we should not have to identify ourselves as a certain “kind” of Christian. We need only to be a “Christian”!!

“N.T. Descriptions…” The term “denomination” suggests division…

“N.T. Descriptions…” The term “denomination” suggests division… Division within God’s church was not approved in the 1st century, nor were there different “kinds” of churches (1 Cor. 1:10-13). The church did not have a proper name; there were not different “kinds” needing distinction from each other (Acts 2:47; Acts 5:11; Acts 8:1-3; Acts 9:31). The church is referred to with different terms throughout the N.T., but as descriptions of relationships. We should all seek to wear only N. T. descriptions.

“N.T. Descriptions…” The body of Christ (Eph. 1:22-23; Col. 1:3-24). Christ is its Savior, Ephesians 5:23-25. Saved by the blood of Christ, which flows in His body, Ephesians 1:7. The churches of Christ (Romans 16:16). Those who are in Christ’s church have been called out of darkness to light, 1 Peter 2:9. Since Christ built His church, all should want to be members of it, Matthew 16:18.

“N.T. Descriptions…” The church of God (1 Corinthians 1:2). It was planned by God from eternity, Eph. 3:8-11. Comprised of those who are purchased by the blood of Christ, Acts 20:28. The house (family) of God (1Timothy 3:15). Those in the church are God’s children, 2 Cor. 6:18. One cannot be God’s “son” or “daughter” without being in His family, Gal. 4:1-7.

“N.T. Descriptions…” The kingdom of Christ, Colossians 1:13-14. Christ is the King of kings, Revelation 17:14. Those who are His subjects are under His rule in His kingdom, Revelation 1:9-11. The temple of God, Ephesians 2:21-22. God’s Spirit dwells in His temple, Ephesians 2:22. All are in His temple, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.

The Name “Christian” An authorized name given to the disciples of Christ. Used at Antioch, Acts 11:19-21, 26. Describes one who is persuaded to become a follower of Jesus Christ, Acts 26:28. Christians are “saints”, Rom. 1:7; 1Cor. 1:2; Phil. 1:1. Christians are “brethren” to others of like faith, Gal. 6:1, Rom. 8:17; Heb. 2:11-12. The name “Christian” also describes one’s activity and attitude, 1 Peter 4:12-16. Christians are “children” of God, Gal. 3:26; Rom. 8:16-17. Christians are “disciples” (learners; followers) of Christ, John 8:30-32; 15:7-10.

God places GREAT Emphasis on NAMES… God changed Abram’s name to Abraham (Gen.17:5). He also changed Sarai’s name to Sarah (Abraham’s wife), (Gen. 17:15). God changed Jacob’s name to Israel (Gen. 32:28), which led to his descendants being called the Israelites. God had the angel Gabriel to instruct Zacharias to name his child John (Lk. 1:13). God had the same angel (who again - is named) to instruct Mary in naming her Child, Jesus (Lk. 1:31). Jesus changed Cephas’ name to Peter (Jn. 1:42). God recognizes Saul being referred to also as Paul (Acts 13:9).

God places GREAT Emphasis on NAMES… Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12 (NKJV)  Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Phil 2:9-11 (NKJV)

God places GREAT Emphasis on NAMES… Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another--to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. Romans 7:4 (NKJV) Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. Acts 20:28 (NKJV)

“What is in a Name?” “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12 (NKJV). Why should anyone ask, “What kind” of a Christian are you? (1 Corinthians 1:10-13; Acts 2:47; Galatians 3:27) Will you become, simply - a Christian?