Matthew Henry Commentary Acts 11:25-30

"And he went forth to Tarsus to seek for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that even for a whole year they were gathered together with the church, and taught much people, and that the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. Now in these days there came down prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be a great famine over all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius. And the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren that dwelt in Judea: which also they did, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul." — Acts 11:25-30 (ASV)

Previously, the followers of Christ were called disciples (that is, learners and scholars); but from that time, they were called Christians. The proper meaning of this name is a follower of Christ; it denotes one who, after serious thought, embraces the religion of Christ, believes His promises, and makes it their chief concern to shape their life by Christ's precepts and example. Thus, it is clear that multitudes take the name of Christian to whom it does not rightly belong.

But the name without the reality will only add to our guilt. While the mere profession will provide neither benefit nor delight, possessing it will provide both the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. Grant, Lord, that Christians may forget other names and distinctions, and love one another as the followers of Christ ought to do.

True Christians will feel for their fellow believers in their afflictions. Thus, fruit will be brought forth to the praise and glory of God. If all humankind were true Christians, how cheerfully they would help one another! The whole earth would be like one large family, every member of which would strive to be dutiful and kind.