Portal:Christianity

Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, who is also referred to as Jesus Christ. It is the world's largest religion, with about 2.3 billion followers globally. Christianity teaches that Jesus is the Son of God and the savior of humanity whose coming as the Messiah was prophesied in the Old Testament.

Beliefs

Central to Christian belief is the Nicene Creed, which establishes the concept of the Holy Trinity, comprising God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Christians believe that Jesus suffered, died, was buried, descended into hell, and rose from the dead, to grant eternal life to those who believe in him and trust in him for the remission of their sins. The sacraments are important visible rituals that Catholics believe were instituted by Jesus. The two most important sacraments, Baptism and Eucharist, are instituted to confer sanctifying grace.

Denominations

Christianity is divided into three main branches: Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy. Each has its own doctrines, practices, and forms of worship.

Roman Catholicism

The Roman Catholic Church is headed by the Pope and has a hierarchical structure. It is the largest Christian denomination, with more than 1.2 billion adherents.

Protestantism

Protestant churches originated in the Reformation, a movement against what its followers perceived to be errors in the Roman Catholic Church. It encompasses several denominational groups, including Lutherans, Baptists, Methodists, and Pentecostals.

Eastern Orthodoxy

The Eastern Orthodox Church shares many beliefs with Roman Catholicism but differs in some theological interpretations and liturgical traditions. It is made up of several self-governing bodies, each geographically and nationally distinct but theologically unified.

History

Christianity began as a sect within Judaism in the mid-1st century AD, originating with the ministry of Jesus in the provinces of Judea and Galilee of the Roman Empire. After Jesus' death, his followers spread his teachings throughout the Mediterranean world and beyond.

Cultural Impact

Christianity has played a prominent role in the shaping of Western civilization since at least the 4th century. The religion has influenced various aspects of Western culture, philosophy, art, and law.

See also

• Bible
• Christian theology
• History of Christianity
• Christian culture