Background Information
Christianity is one of the world’s largest religious group, according to statistics about 2.4 billion people identify themselves with the religious group. Its roots lie in Judaism and the teachings of Jesus. The New Testament records the beginnings of Christianity. By the fourth century AD, Christianity was now firmly established as the religion of the Roman Empire. Over the centuries, Christianity spread across the globe, taking on different cultural and regional variations.
Historical Context
Christianity began in the Jewish world of the 1st Century AD with the life, death and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus was a Jewish Preacher and Teacher in the Galilee area. His followers called themselves Christians, a name derived from Jesus’ title ‘Christ’. He taught using parables and the evidence of miracles. When he died, his followers believed he had been raised from the dead and that He was the promised messiah to the Jews. Jesus’ death and resurrection were the foundation of a new faith, Christianity. Though Jesus did not draw any lines of boundaries, His life and teaching made an impact on the lives of those close to him.
Spread of Christianity
The spread of Christianity first started by the apostles and their followers during the time of Jesus. Through their ministry, Christians began to spread the gospel in cities throughout the Roman Empire. Later, Christianity was spread through the work of missionaries, who shared the gospel with those who had never heard it before. These missionaries played a key role in the spread of Christianity throughout Asia, Africa and Europe. During the Middle Ages, Christian leaders such as St. Augustine, St. Francis and St. Thomas Aquinas furthered the spread of Christianity by engaging in theological debate and writing books on the Christian faith.
Growth of Christianity
The growth of Christianity continued in the sixteenth century, with the arrival of English, French and Spanish explorers to the Americas. The Roman Catholic Church was the first to establish missions in the newly-discovered lands. These missions were the first inroads to the spread of Christianity in the New World. From the Americas, the Christian faith spread to other parts of the world by missionaries, such as the Jesuits and the Franciscan friars. As a result, Christianity was established in South America, China, India, and much of the Pacific.
Modern Times
Today, Christianity continues to spread and grow into new parts of the world. In countries that have a history of hostility to Christianity, such as China, the Gospel continues to spread through foreign missionaries and underground churches. The internet has also been credited for the spread of the Christian faith, with the growth of Christian websites, online churches and ministries. Additionally, international mission agencies and organisations such as InterVarsity, Campus Crusade for Christ and World Vision are also playing a role in the spread of Christianity.
Political Context
Christianity has had an impact on politics across the centuries. religious persecution was present in the Roman Empire and certain emperors were hostile to Christianity. Today Christianity still interacts with the political world. In certain countries the political and religious leaders are intertwined and Christian values are legally enforced. In other countries, Christians are marginalised and persecuted on the basis of their faith.
Cultural Impact
The impact of Christianity is seen in our culture in a number of ways. A common observation is that a lot of our culture and traditions, such as the concept of Christmas, have their roots in the Christian faith. Additionally, Christianity has contributed to the development of music, literature, art and architecture. For example, many churches and cathedrals have been built over the centuries, reflecting the influence of Christianity in the architecture of the time.
Economic Situation
The influence of Christianity can also be seen in the economic world. Many of the world’s largest banks, corporations and businesses are based on Christian values and principles. These organisations promote the ethical practices of integrity and honesty in their dealings. Additionally, the church has a role in charity work, helping those in need and providing support to those who are marginalised or disadvantaged in their communities.
Theology
Theology is an important aspect for understanding Christianity, as it provides a framework for understanding and interpreting the teachings of the Bible. Theology is an ongoing process of interpretation, dialogue, and debate that helps us to understand the Christian faith more deeply. It involves the study of areas such as the nature of God, the divine principles, the role of the church and the mission of the church. Theology is not only an academic subject, but it helps us to understand how different Christian denominations interpret the teachings of the Bible and how these interpretations impact our lives.
Conclusion
Christianity has had a profound impact on our world over the centuries and its growth is still seen today. From the Roman Empire till today, it has spread its teachings and values across countries and cultures. It has impacted our political, cultural, economic and theological understandings of the world. Christianity is still evolving and no matter where it is found, it still holds an important place in our lives.
