What Is Christianity?
At its core, Christianity is a religion and a way of life built around a belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The vast majority of adherents to the faith, known as Christians, are followers of the Bible, which acts as the foundation for their belief-structure. Common tenants of the faith include the Golden Rule, the belief in the afterlife, and the realization that repentance, or asking for forgiveness of sins, is key to a fulfilled spiritual journey. Although the Bible is commonly viewed as the single source of the Christian faith, it is not the only the driving force of many adherents’ lives.
What Is the Difference Between Religion and Way of Life?
For adherents to the Christian faith, the distinction between religion and way of life can be viewed from a number of angles. Asking whether it’s a religion or way of life is, in fact, asking an incomplete question. Religion can be defined as a collection of beliefs, practices, and rituals often founded in the scriptures or one specific sacred text. Conversely, a way of life is an overarching set of beliefs, values, and practices that generate an entire lifestyle or worldview. For many people, Christianity holds both of these characteristics together, with elements from both manifesting themselves in the life of a Christian.
Living Out Christianity and Jewish Roots
At most fundamental level, Christianity can be broken down into two distinct branches, as noted by noted biblical scholar Erich Fromm. Christian orthodoxy is the branch of adherence to the traditional teachings and practices of the faith, while modern Christianity is the branch that focuses on living the gospel in a more applied and practical way. Indeed, the roots of Christianity can be traced back to over 2,000 years ago, when Jesus of Nazareth taught and spread the gospel of peace and love, inspiring many followers and eventually forming a major world religion. For modern adherents, this involves practicing love and kindness, helping the needy, and seeking out a greater understanding of the faith by reflecting on its scriptures and teachings.
Postmodern Christianity and Going Beyond the Bible
The influence of Jesus has transcended the scriptures with Postmodern Christianity, defined by religion expert Clarence Newsome as having “transcendence toward a more inclusive and diverse Christianity.” This branch of faith emphasizes personal reflection, understanding and interpretation of the bible and its teachings, as well as looking beyond traditional boundaries to create a holistic belief structure. This includes incorporating faith with science, politics, and culture to form a more comprehensive understanding of the world and one’s responsibility to it.
Modern Scrutiny of Christianity
With multiple religious texts, conflicting teachings, and an even more confusing set of interpretations, the religious landscape can often be overwhelming for a Christian to navigate. As a result, many modern adherents have to contend with relentless scrutiny and criticism of their faith, in addition to grappling with personal doubt and religious uncertainty. Additionally, some consider Christianity to be at odds with modern ideologies such as feminism and LGBTQ rights, making it a cultural and social lightning rod in the minds of some.
Turning Faith Into Action
Despite the existing challenges of the Christian faith, adherents across the world have taken their beliefs and used them to make a real difference. Numerous charities and aid organizations have been founded by Christian activists, from supporting the hungry and homeless, to combatting poverty, to promoting the education of minorities. Through this work, Christianity has brought together disparate individuals from various walks of life to organize and use their faith make an impact.
Engaging in Difficult Conversations
In addition to charities and aid organizations, Christians have also taken their faith to the forefront of difficult conversations. Issues such as capital punishment, abortion, racism, and human rights are discussed with passion and fervour, as advocates on either side look to pass on the torch of their beliefs to the greater public. Through this activism and engagement, seekers of truth could have their views interrogated, sharpened, and augmented through difficult dialogue that delves into the depths of faith and humanity.
Exploring Divergent Perspectives
Beyond discussing concepts such as redemption and the afterlife, Christianity is also an opportunity to explore divergent perspectives and challenge worldly norms. For many believers, this involves daring to ask deep questions regarding morality, human nature, and society, in order to understand the real meaning of being a Christian in the 21st century.
Living Christian Values
At its foundation, Christianity is about upholding moral values. This involves respecting and looking after one’s self, understanding and empathizing with the faith’s teachings, and helping others regardless of their religious orientation. Christianity encourages a sense of community and shared fellowship between ‘believers’, advocating and living out the core values the faith emphasizes such as love, devotion, and mercy.
Challenging Faith in the Modern World
In a world where values and spiritual beliefs are challenged more than ever, Christians have taken to using modern technology to spread and maintain faith-based messages. Despite the changing cultural backdrop and innovative methods of evangelizing, the core beliefs of Christianity remain and continue to be upheld by many passionate believers.
Reaching Beyond the Confines of Religion
Adherents of Christianity have also attempted to reach out beyond the confines of religion and explore how faith-based values and messages can influence the structure and functioning society. This has resulted in countless initiatives and campaigns that often call upon the Christian faith as a driving force in social transformation.
Building A Stronger Faith Community
One of the common goals of Christian faith is the desire to build a strong and faithful community. Networks of churches and worshippers across the world continue to emphasize a sense of underlying hope, faith, and trust in the power of Christianity. Despite the changing landscape and age-old conflicts, a number of powerful grassroots organizations have also sprung up, providing a sense of fellowship and religious support to people who may have been cast aside or marginalized due to their religious orientation.
Living Side by Side in Harmony
Perhaps one of the most beautiful elements of Christianity is the way it promotes living side-by-side in harmony with those of different faiths. The scriptures emphasize the need for believers to act in accordance with their beliefs, many of which stand for peace, love, and understanding of those different from them. This is why adherents from across the world have come together to co-exist, collaborate, and create an environment of mutual support and understanding for each other.
Interpreting Christian Principles into Action
Christian principles have also been applied in many practical ways to reflect the values of the faith. This involves giving generously to charities, protecting the environment, and advocating for the rights of ‘the least of these’ amongst us. These actions have been seen as powerful symbols of Christianity’s strength, not only in regards to moral guidance, but also in providing a sense of community, connection, and collective mission.
The Power of Prayer and Devotion
In a world where faith sometimes seems to be declining, the power of prayer and devotion is robust and thriving. Through individual reflection, collective prayer, and dedication to the faith, ardent believers continue to keep the flame of their faith alive. Prayer is seen as an uplifting force, allowing people of all walks of life to find comfort, connection, and strength from their faith.
Christianity as Faith and Service
From its roots to the modern age, Christianity has been a source of comfort and strength for individuals and entire nations. This faith — as both religion and way of life — has had profound implications for the lives of adherents, summoning them beyond the realm of scriptures to engage in diverse and meaningful work. From service and activism to prayer and devotion, the tide of Christianity continues to surge and ripple throughout society, holding the timeless secrets of faith alive in the hearts of believers.
