This is the first issue of Ikthos, a blog devoted to opening a discussion about what the word “Christian” means in today’s society, and how New testament/New Covenant believers express their faith through art and culture.
The word “Christian” is being used a great deal today. But unfortunately, I believe it is being politicized. The word was first seen in the bible in Acts 11:26, which states that the disciples were first called “Christians” in Antioch. The term as stated in Acts, meant a follower of Christ, but does it still mean that today?
Somewhere along the way, the word “Christian” has come to mean membership in a group… the Christian Right… Evangelical…. the Christian Coalition…. Baptist…. Catholic… Pentacostal, etc., etc., etc. The list goes on and on. Each group has different leaders, different doctrines, some even have different days of worship (Saturday vs. Sunday). With all the differences and dogma and denominations, I believe it is imperative that we rethink how we use the word today. Not to associate with a particular group, but to truly be followers of Christ and Christ alone… as individuals, in our daily lives.
In this blog, I invite you to discuss what the word Christian means to you, individually… personally and how you express your faith artistically and culturally. I invite artists, musicians, teachers and those who want to impact society to please write and let me know how you feel your faith impacts your work, your art and your lives today.
Sincerely,
Felicia V. Gaddis
