Christianity Basics
CHRISTIANITY is the world's largest religion (~2.4 billion adherents). It centers on JESUS OF NAZARETH (c. 4 BCE - 30 CE), whom Christians believe was the Son of God and Messiah. Christians believe Jesus was crucified, died, and rose from the dead — and that faith in him brings salvation. The BIBLE (Old + New Testaments) is the central scripture.
Major branches. CATHOLIC: largest branch (~1.3 billion); led by the Pope. ORTHODOX: ~220 million; ancient liturgy and tradition. PROTESTANT: ~900 million; many denominations (Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, Anglican); emerged from the Protestant Reformation (1517). Each branch shares core beliefs (Trinity, resurrection, salvation through Christ) but differs in practice, governance, and emphasis.
What is the central event in Christian belief?
Christian ethics. The GOLDEN RULE ("treat others as you wish to be treated"), love of God and neighbor, forgiveness, mercy, charity. The TEN COMMANDMENTS (shared with Judaism). Christianity has inspired vast charity, art, music (Bach, Handel), architecture (cathedrals), education (universities began as Christian institutions). It has also been used to justify violence, slavery, and oppression — a complex history.
Visit Architecture
Look up images of major Christian architecture: cathedrals (Chartres, Notre Dame), Orthodox churches (Hagia Sophia), simple Protestant chapels.
Christianity has shaped Western and global culture for 2,000 years.
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