Thought for the Day-To be called Christians

The Good Shepherd, Niels Larsen Stevns, 1921

A Thought for the Day given at a lunchtime service of Holy Communion at St Olave Hart Street on Tuesday 28th April 2026 based on readings from Acts 11.19-26 and John 10.22-30.

Whether you are joining us for the first time, with us every so often or for every service, you belong to this community both here at St Olave Hart Street and the wider church – in all its glorious diversity. A global family of faith called “Christians”.

The reading from the Book of Acts we heard just now tells us that:

“It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.”

A statement which might call us to reflect on what it is that defines our belonging in this way. What is it that makes us a Christian community?

In response, perhaps we might say something about what we believe – we could recite the creed perhaps? Or talk about the traditions of prayer and worship we have inherited and continue? Or describe how we participate in charitable acts of service? All of those would be valid answers.

In today’s gospel passage, Jesus gives us another description of what it means to belong to him.

“My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me.”

To be a Christian is then, at heart, someone who hears the voice of Christ – the one who knows us better than we know ourselves – and follows Him. No matter who we are, what we do, or where we come from.

The Acts of the Apostles offers a glimpse into the early church as those who were first called Christian sought to listen to the voice of Jesus through the work of the Spirit, after his death, resurrection and ascension. The story of their lives offers great hope and encouragement for all who called to do the same.

In today’s passage, we find a small and scattered community at risk of persecution, who have travelled into unfamiliar territory. Despite the risks, they speak to the people they meet about the one they are following. What has brought them there? They talk about Jesus with people who have never heard of him before and had no knowledge of the places he visited.

And the community grew.

Rapidly.

“A great number turned to the Lord.”

The church in Jerusalem got wind of it and sent Barnabas to see what was going on. He was so bowled over by seeing God at work through the Christian community in Antioch that he went to find the great missionary Paul - and brought him to see what he could learn.

What he could learn from this community of ordinary, faithful people whose lives were beginning to reflect the one they followed. And which grew as a result - as they translated the message of Christ through meeting and engaging with those around them. By becoming more like the Living Word.

“My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me.”

The first community to be called Christian show us that all can follow Him. We do not need to be amazing missionaries like St Paul. We don’t have to have all the answers or know the scriptures inside out.

To be called a Christian – to be a Christian community means to be in relationship with Christ – and through him with others.

To be known by Him.

To listen for his voice.

To follow where he leads.

Image : The Good Shepherd, Niels Larsen Stevns, 1921