A Christian, by biblical definition, is someone who has been born again through faith in Jesus Christ, trusting solely in His death and resurrection for salvation. Acts 11:26 records the first use of the term:
“And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.”
Whether someone is a true Christian depends on their personal faith in Christ, not merely a label or denominational affiliation.
The Roman Catholic Church teaches many doctrines that are not supported by Scripture: such as purgatory, prayers to Mary and the saints, the infallibility of the Pope, and the belief that sacraments are necessary for salvation. These teachings conflict with the biblical gospel, which declares:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
(Ephesians 2:8–9)
Salvation is by grace through faith, not by church membership, ritual, or human mediation. Paul warned against any gospel that adds to the finished work of Christ:
“But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.”
(Galatians 1:8)
That said, there are individuals within the Catholic Church who may genuinely trust in Christ alone for salvation, despite the errors of the system. Their identity as Christians would be because of their faith in Jesus, not because they are Catholic.
The key question is not one’s denomination but whether one has personally repented of sin and believed the true gospel. 2 Corinthians 13:5 says:
“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.”
The gospel must be the standard. Any system that contradicts or obscures it cannot be endorsed as biblical Christianity.
