מְשִׁיחִיִּים Meshichim (Messianic) is equivalent to the Greek word Χριστιανός Christianos (G5546) and means “follower of the Messiah (the Christ)” which was the name was first given to the disciples of Yeshua by the Gentiles in Antioch (cf. Acts 11:26) possibly as a derogatory title. However, by the second century it appears to have been accepted by followers of Yeshua as a title of honor (cf. 1 Peter 4:16).
Acts 11:25-26 Barnabas went out to Tarsus to look for Saul. 26 When he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they were gathered together with the assembly, and taught many people. The disciples were first called (G5537) Messianic in Antioch.
χρηματίζω chrēmatizō (G5537) means to transact business, especially to execute or manage public affairs (cf. 1 Kings 18:27) and also means to execute or receive a divine command, admonishment, or word from Elohim (cf. Jeremiah 25:30; Jeremiah 26:2; Jeremiah 29:23; Jeremiah 30:2; Jeremiah 36:4; Matthew 2:12; Matthew 2:22; Luke 2:26; Acts 10:22; Hebrews 8:5; Hebrews 11:7; Hebrews 12:25). Two times, the Greek word χρηματίζω chrēmatizō is translated as “called” in the sense to assume or take to one’s self a name from one’s public affairs or business (cf. Acts 11:26; Romans 7:3).
Acts 26:28-29 Agrippa said to Paul, “With a little persuasion are you trying to make me a Messianic?” 29 Paul said, “I pray to God, that whether with little or with much, not only you, but also all that hear me today, might become such as I am, except for these bonds.”
1 Peter 4:14-17 If you are insulted for the name of Messiah, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. On their part he is blasphemed, but on your part he is glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil doer, or a meddler in other men’s matters. 16 But if one of you suffers for being a Messianic, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this matter. 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. If it begins first with us, what will happen to those who don’t obey the Good News of God?
« Back to Glossary Index