The word "pagan" in the Christian vocabulary can have one of several meanings:
Biblical -- non-Jews were called heathens or pagans. Since Jesus, the 12 disciples, and Paul were all jews, this tradition extended to non-Christians. Most Biblical references to "pagans" in the New Testament use this sense of the word.
Jest -- actions, opinions, or beliefs that are not a part of stereotypical Christian beliefs are sometimes called "pagan." This is more or less making fun of the above sense. (example: "You watch South Park and find it funny! You pagan!")
Wiccan/pagan -- Believe it or not, Christians do recognize the existance of the group of polytheistic beliefs generally categorized as "pagan." Wiccans can sometimes get incorrectly lumped in with pagans, but frankly we don't care. ;) This is generally used when differentiating one non-Christian group from another (e.g. Islam vs. Mormon vs. Buddha vs. "pagan")
My favorite is the P.A.G.A.N. sense. People Against Goodness And Normalcy. ;)
Nathan
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