Christianity (religion)
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| Christianity (religion) | |
|---|---|
| Name | Christianity |
| Founder | Jesus |
| Founded in | 1st century |
| Founded where | Roman Judea |
| Scripture | Bible |
| Theology | Christian theology |
| Languages | Koine Greek, Latin, Hebrew, Aramaic |
| Adherents | ~2.3 billion |
Christianity (religion) is an Abrahamic faith centered on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It emerged in Roman Judea during the 1st century and became a dominant religious, cultural, and political force across Europe, the Americas, parts of Africa, and Oceania. Christianity shaped institutions such as the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Holy Roman Empire, and influenced figures like Constantine I, Augustine of Hippo, Thomas Aquinas, and Martin Luther.
Overview and Beliefs
Christian belief affirms the identity of Jesus as the Messiah and centers on doctrines like the Trinity, the Incarnation, the Atonement, and Resurrection of Jesus. Creeds such as the Nicene Creed and the Apostles' Creed summarize core commitments upheld in councils like the First Council of Nicaea and the Council of Chalcedon. Soteriology debates involve theologians including Origen, Anselm of Canterbury, John Calvin, and Karl Barth while eschatological expectations tie to events like the Second Coming and texts such as the Book of Revelation.
History
Christian origins trace to Jesus' ministry, his followers like Peter, James, and John, and missionary expansion by Paul the Apostle through regions such as Antioch, Ephesus, and Rome. Early controversies produced movements like Gnosticism and responses at synods such as the Council of Nicaea. Christianity became legalized under Edict of Milan and later the state religion of the Roman Empire under Theodosius I. Medieval developments include the East–West Schism between Rome and Constantinople, monastic reforms led by Benedict of Nursia, crusading expeditions exemplified by the First Crusade, and scholastic synthesis by Thomas Aquinas. The Protestant Reformation initiated by Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Huldrych Zwingli produced confessions like the Augsburg Confession and conflicts including the Thirty Years' War. Modern movements include Evangelicalism, Pentecostalism, and global missionary efforts such as those by William Carey and David Livingstone.
Scriptures and Theology
The principal text is the Bible, composed of the Old Testament and the New Testament with canonical formation discussed at councils like the Council of Carthage. Important works include the Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles of Paul, and the Book of Revelation. Major theological traditions differentiate Eastern Orthodox theology, Roman Catholic theology, and Protestant theology with authorities such as the Magisterium, the Church Fathers (e.g., Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria), and reformers like John Calvin and Martin Luther. Theological topics engage with figures like Athanasius of Alexandria on the Trinity, Aquinas on natural theology, and Jonathan Edwards on revivalist theology.
Practices and Worship
Liturgical practice spans rites such as the Mass, Divine Liturgy, and Holy Communion with sacramental emphasis found in Eastern Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, and some Anglicanism traditions. Other practices include baptism (infant and believer's), confession, prayer, and observances like Easter, Christmas, and Lent. Worship styles range from elaborate ceremonies in St. Peter's Basilica and Hagia Sophia to charismatic gatherings in Azusa Street-influenced congregations. Clerical offices include bishop, priest, deacon, and reforms have addressed issues like clerical celibacy and episcopal authority in contexts such as the Council of Trent.
Denominations and Movements
Major branches include Roman Catholic Church led historically by the Pope, Eastern Orthodox Church comprising churches such as the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, and Protestantism with denominations like the Lutheran Church, Reformed churches, Anglican Communion, and Methodism. Movements include Anabaptists, Pentecostalism, Evangelicalism, Restoration Movement, and modern ecumenical bodies such as the World Council of Churches and dialogues like the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification. Independent traditions include Oriental Orthodoxy with churches like the Coptic Orthodox Church and smaller groups like the Mennonites and Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Cultural and Social Impact
Christian institutions shaped educational foundations like University of Paris, Oxford University, and Cambridge University and established hospitals exemplified by medieval Xenodochium and modern institutions bearing names like St. Thomas' Hospital. Christian art includes works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and architecture from Gothic cathedrals to Baroque churches such as St. Peter's Basilica. Political influence appears in events like the Edict of Milan, the Reformation, and negotiations such as the Peace of Augsburg and the Treaty of Westphalia. Social movements include abolitionism led by figures like William Wilberforce, revival movements like the Great Awakening with preachers Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield, and contemporary humanitarian efforts by organizations such as Caritas Internationalis and World Vision.