What are the characteristics of a Christian? The name “Christian” was first given to the disciples. (Acts 11:26) So a Christian should also be a disciple. The conditions for being a disciple are clearly written in Luke 14:26-27,33, “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.” Our relationship with our parents, marriage partner, children, possessions and our future in this world must be according to what Christ teaches us. We must be independent from them in our spirit, so that our relationship to them doesn’t hinder us from doing what is right and pure in God’s eyes.