As I read over these posts two things come to mind: Yes, followers of Jesus and His teachings were first called Christians at Antioch but in Jerusalem and elsewhere they were called "Followers of the Way." and most remained Jewish in their traditions and roots; but in time Gentiles began to be included more and more. Being a Christian especially later in places like Rome was risky.
Having said that..then what does being a Christian mean to us today? I think we are still followers of the Way and it goes beyond an initial conversion experience and how we received that. So many do profess to be saved and after a little while or sometimes a long while turn away from the Way of Jesus and go back to the ways of the world. Or they go back and forth in faith depending on their circumstances. Yet, they may profess to be Christians because at one time they received the Salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Those non-Christians who wait and observe don't see them as Christians, however, if they are not living out the Christian Way of Life. In other words, the world is watching. Those who follow Christ, although not perfect, are simply endeavoring to live out a way of life based upon His teachings and "by their fruit they are known."
As for the Church: Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit in His Church to help guide us in that along the Way. Granted too often people in the churches fail us or are not living out the Way Jesus teaches in the gospels, but all and all community is so important to have in which we can live and learn through the example of others and by giving of our own talents in service as well. Reading the Acts of the Apostles definitely establishes this as well as the Epistles of Paul and others which follow. We need each other. Some chose not to be involved and in no way can we judge that choice, but I have learned that most of the time when someone leaves or won't attend a church (unless ill, incapacitated, etc.) it is because people in the church have judged, misjudged, or hurt them in some way. We need to reach out and welcome them back home always respecting their choices.
Bottom line is that...We are all God's children, His creation. But specifically active Christians are those who once having the faith to accept Christ as their personal Savior and believing that..endeavor to follow Him..which usually means Church included. Which church is a subject for another thread... Just some thoughts which I hope helps.
