While the term “Christian” is commonly embraced in our day as a designation for those who are believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, scholarship largely argues that the term was originally coined by outsiders for followers of Jesus Christ. In this presentation I will explore the three occurrences of this term in the N.T. (Acts 11:26; 26:28; I Peter 4:16). I will explore theories as to the source of the term, as well as noting the theological significance of the term both in Lukan theology and Petrine theology. While I will argue that the term originates as a more derogatory designation from outsiders, Lukes’ usage signifies that the term emphasizes the inclusion of Jews and Gentiles in the church of God. Peter’s discussion of the term signifies that believers should embrace the derogatory term in their suffering for Christ, so as to glorify God. While outsiders will continue to largely use the term in a derogatory fashion outside the N.T., the post-Apostolic church will begin to embrace the term as a proper designation for God’s church. Contemporary Christians should follow our forebears in embracing the designation and its significance in our own day.