Expert: John - 4/27/2005

Question
Does the word "Christian" appear in the Bible?  I realize that the concept is there, but is the actual term?  Also, did Jesus convert his followers to Judaism?  Is there a verse that says that such conversion is no longer necessary?  
* I just read my question and realized it may sound cold and confrontational.  Neither is my intent, I'm merely succinct, a habit of my occupation.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Joseph,
Well the Term Christian does actually appear in the New Testament (At which time Christianity began)
In Acts 26:28  And Agrippa said unto Paul, With but little persuasion thou wouldest fain make me a Christian.
And in
1 Peter 4:16  but if a man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this name.
And in Acts 11:26 you can see that the followers of Jesus where called Christians:
Act 11:26  and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that even for a whole year they were gathered together with the church, and taught much people, and that the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
Now for your second question in regards Judaism.  Judaism is mentioned twice in the New Testament:
Acts 13:43  Now when the synagogue broke up, many of the Jews and of the devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas; who, speaking to them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.
Galatians 1:13  For ye have heard of my manner of life in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and made havoc of it:
Galatians 1:14  and I advanced in the Jews' religion beyond many of mine own age among my countrymen, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.

So from reading those two verses you can see that followers of Jesus did not convert to Judaism, the converted to Christianity.  
I hope this helps.  If not please send me another note and I will do my best to help.  Don't worry about sounding confrontational, it is difficult to write a note when asking a question.  I am here to help in any way.
Take care
Pastor John