Why did Christianity Develop as its Own Religion
Christianity has been an important force in the world today, with around a quarter of the global population identifying as Christian. This Christian faith has its roots in a diverse history which involves several other spiritual and religious terms and traditions. To understand how and why Christianity developed into the religion it is today, one must look closely at the history, beliefs and its evolving relationship with other established traditions.
The roots of Christianity can be traced back to the Biblical prophet Abraham, who was the patriarch of Israelite religion. Though Abraham was not the first to draw attention to monotheism – the belief of only one true God – he is credited for introducing this concept to Hebrews and Jews. Through his teachings, many followers converted to the believes of Monotheism, from polytheism, which is the belief in many gods.
With the emergence of Judeo-Christianity that followed the death of Abraham, this movement spread through the diaspora of the Jews and reached North Africa, Italy and other areas of Europe. Scripture later connected the development of Christianity to the teachings of Jesus Christ, who was considered to be a prophet to the Jews. Jesus continued to teach his followers the importance of a spiritual relationship with only one true God and the importance of life purpose. His teachings began to gain a wider following and by the 1st century, Jesus’s message began to spread across the world.
Every religion must have its own unique message, and for Christianity this was the teaching of love and forgiveness, along with a new covenant with God. Through this unique interpretation, Christians believed that they were bound through an unbreakable covenant with God, unlike the Jews who focused on the importance of a relationship with the land and the Law. Furthermore, Christianity’s early progress was aided by Roman Emperor Constantine who declared Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire which further expanded its reach and importance.
By the 5th century, Christianity had firmly established itself as its own religion, as opposed to an offshoot of Judaism, but there were still several traditional Jewish beliefs that were incorporated into Christian rituals. This borrowing of traditions contributed to the hybrid of Christianity, allowing it to spread and to be accepted by many.
Christianity has evolved significantly over the centuries, but its expansion and social acceptance can be traced back to its core teachings of love, spirit and faith. As the saying goes, ‘Love never fails’ and this has been the overarching theme of Christianity which has allowed it to withstand any tests of time and opposition.
What is the Difference between Judaism and Christianity?
Though both Judaism and Christianity share much of the same religious history and beliefs, there are many distinct differences in their beliefs and practices. Christianity is rooted in the teachings of Jesus who preached about God’s love and the importance of finding a spiritual purpose, whereas Judaism is based on the laws of Moses which includes the Mosaic code.
The followers of Judaism do not consider Jesus to be their Saviour, because they do not believe that he is the same figure that is mentioned in the Old Testament. Christianity also has saints who are glorified as chosen figures, whereas in Judaism the closest concept are the prophets who are a spiritual guide.
A much more obvious difference between Judaism and Christianity is the importance they place on their places of worship. Christians gather in churches, cathedrals and chapels, whilst Jews mainly practice their religion in a synagogue.
The hierarchy between the two differs greatly, too. In Christianity, priests and pastors are held in high esteem, whereas in Judaism the Rabbi holds considerable higher stature because of the reverence to the laws of Moses.
These distinctions are just the tip of the iceberg, but both Christianity and Judaism are an ideology of personal faith in God and the pursuit of achieving personal spiritual growth. Ultimately, they are religions born from the same Abrahamic teachings, and the blurred line between them only testifies to the malleability and timelessness of religion.
Did Christianity Spread through Force?
The manner in which Christianity has spread across the world has long been debated, but the evidence suggests both peaceful and non-peaceful means have been employed. According to historians, Christianity spread through the showing of mercy and goodwill, but also through social and political coercion.
For example, in some parts of Africa, missionaries found success by offering gifts of food and basic comforts during times of famine in exchange for spiritual conversion. Elsewhere, particularly amongst the Celts and other spiritualistic tribes in Europe, Christianity was forced upon them upon the threat of death and torture, as seen with the Vikings and Saxons.
There is no doubt that many European cultures adopted Christianity for fear of the repercussions for not doing so. In all cases, Christianity was seen as an enemy of the culture and some groups integrated with it rather than be driven out or destroyed. Nevertheless, the influence was good in that Christianity introduced stability, relief and compassion to many societies.
Regardless of the varying means of missionary activity, Christianity spread across the world quickly as a result of its universal message of hope and redemption. Christianity provided a sense of community both within the moral and spiritual aspects of life, offering boundaries to distinguish between what is right and wrong. These welcomed notions of morality and social justice meant that it soon became intertwined within the fabric of society.
How Did Christianity Change over Time?
Christianity has changed significantly over time and this is partly due to the availability of new translation of the Bible and the endless controversies over how to interpret key passages. Over the years, various aspects of Christianity’s faith and practice have been focused on, from the Reformation and its focus on the authority of Scripture, to the Social Gospel movement advocating for world peace and justice.
In the 19th century, Christianity had largely shifted to a belief in more spiritualistic understandings, such as speaking in tongues. After World War II, American Christianity adopted more of a conservative approach, becoming more politicised and staunchly against abortion, homosexuality and same-sex marriage, amongst other progressive changes.
The essential teachings of Christianity have remained largely unchanged, however, the miracles of Jesus are also key hallmarks which have kept the faith alive over the centuries. These Jesus miracles offer hope to those who suffer and assurance that God is capable of providing assistance when it is truly needed.
As technology continues to evolve, so too does Christianity, with a number of digital avenues, such as podcasts and video recordings, allowing the religion to be shared with a wider audience on the global stage. As a result, Christianity has reinvented itself for the modern world, accessing more nomadic, underserved populations and providing a home for a diverse range of believers from all walks of life.
How is Christianity Relevant Today?
Christianity continues to be on the forefront of matters in the modern world, and its relevance can be seen in how it shapes politics, education and culture. In America, Christianity remains the predominant faith amongst its population, with a recent report finding that 70.6% of people identify as Christian, making it the most popularly-identified religious group.
Christianity continues to be a source of inspiration to many, and its lasting presence has gone some way to set the moral and ethical agenda for societies around the world. Through charities, hospitals and schools, Christianity has sought to bring healing and education to the most troubled areas on Earth. It also continues to provide a sense of comfort and hope to those who are searching for purpose and meaning in their lives.
Though much has changed in terms of Christianity’s practices and beliefs, its core message – grounded in hope and love – remain the same. Christianity is a faith which transcends national boundaries and provides a sense of comfort to all. This universal connection has meant that no matter what the changing tides of culture bring, Christianity will adapt, remaining relevant for its believers for centuries to come.
How has Christianity made an Impact on the World?
The influence of Christianity can be seen far and wide, with its presence on the global stage positively impacting a vast number of areas, in politics, science and human rights. In terms of healthcare, it has facilitated the establishment of hospitals, which over the centuries have made a huge impact on the lives of the sick and vulnerable.
A prominent example is the Red Cross, founded in 1863 by Swiss businessman Henry Dunant. Over its long history, the Red Cross has been at the forefront of disaster relief, medical aid and advancement of human rights, helping countless individuals and families in their hour of need.
In terms of politics, the legacy of Christianity can be seen in the works of Martin Luther King Jr whose speeches and sermons were heavily inspired by the teachings of Jesus. His powerful message of civil rights and peaceful activism went on to inspire millions around the world and change the course of history.
On a legal front, the freedoms granted to people of conscience can be traced back to Christianity’s influence on England and America’s frame of law. From its origins in Christian theology and spirituality, the right to have a conscience and the right to exercise it has been embedded in law, offering freedom and assurance in a variety of social contexts.
Christianity has had a tangible influence on humanity and this has spread far beyond its own theological doctrines. It has played an integral role in the development of culture, law, education and healthcare over the centuries, offering protection and assurance for the vulnerable and inspiring others to strive for social justice.
What is the Significance of Christianity Today?
Christianity has been around for nearly 2000 years, and its global footprint demonstrates its significance and staying power, despite massive changes and progress over the centuries. To this day, millions of people around the world still adhere to the teachings of Jesus, and its adoption by so many different cultures is testament to its relevance for all.
One of the reasons for its continuing popularity is its timeless message of hope, something which is important in an ever-changing and volatile world. Christianity also offers a strong ethical framework, inspiring respect and personal responsibility, and is the reason why people in modern times are still drawn to it.
The material evidence of Christianity, from the churches, cathedrals and monuments, demonstrate its grandeur and its impact on art and architecture around the world. Through its countless holy sites, literature and countless lasting traditions, Christianity has become part of the landscape that millions of people across the globe can identify with.
It is impossible to measure the significances of Christianity in its entirety, because it has been so integral to the many civilisations, countries and multiple generations that have adopted it in one form or another. From its groundbreaking teachings to its enduring presence, one thing is certain: Christianity will be around for many more years to come.
