Suffering as a Christian

“However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.” 1 Peter 4:16
It may come as a surprise to know that the first century believers did not call themselves ‘Christians’. They called themselves “followers of The Way” (see Acts 9:2, 19:9, 19:23, 24:14, 24:22). The word ‘Christian’ was a derogatory term, first used of believers in Antioch (Acts 11:26). It means ‘little Christ’. The only other occurrence of the word is in Acts 26:28, where Herod trying Paul said, “Do you think you can persuade me to be a Christian?” – also used in a derogatory way.
Those early believers welcomed the put-down and, as we know, came to use the term of themselves in later centuries. But even today among non-believers, the word ‘Christian’ is still used in a derogatory sense.
We can take heart from Peter’s words here. ‘If you suffer as a Christian’ can mean if you suffer because you are a Christian, or if you suffer because people use the name ‘Christian’ of you in a derogatory sense. I am inclined to think the second is what he was referring to, because he goes on to say, ‘do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.’ To be identified with our Lord, even in a derogatory way, is an honour, and we should not shy away from it.