Christianity
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WHAT IS CHRISTIANITY?
Christianity is the most widely practiced religion in the world, with more than 2.1 billion followers. The Christian faith centers on beliefs regarding the birth, life, teachings, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ in the 1st Century CE. It is an Abrahamic monotheistc faith believing in one God as the creator and, similar to Judaism, follows the Old Testament of the Bible. However, Christians also follow the New Testament that includes scriptures that outline the teachings of Jesus, his disciples and major prophets, as well as provide instructions for how Christians should live. Christians believe God sent Jesus, the Christ/Messiah, to save the world by offering forgiveness of sin and was resurrected after three days, that he was the Son of God, fully human and divine, and that through believing in him and following his teachings they can inherit eternal life and he will return to earth once again in the Second Coming.
WHERE DID CHRISTIANITY ORIGINATE?
Christianity began in the 1st century AD after Jesus died and was resurrected, as a small group of Jewish people in Judea, but quickly spread throughout the Roman empire. Despite early persecution of Christians, it later became the state religion. In the Middle Ages it spread into Northern Europe and Russia. During the Age of Exploration, Christianity expanded throughout the world; it is currently the largest religion of the world.
HOW TO PRACTICE CHRISTIANITY
In addition to celebrating the birth of Christ on Christmas, the Resurrection on Easter and attending Church, Christians can practice their faith in many ways: Prayer to commune with God; Daily Bible Readings as a reminder of the teachings; Living according to the principles and teaching them to future generations; Sharing with the community through prayer, charity and volunteer work.
WHY PRACTICE CHRISTIANITY?
Christians believe that Jesus Christ was the Son of God who died for humanity and that God raised him from the dead . Through believing in him and following his teachings they can inherit eternal life. Jesus lived and experienced the suffering of humans. He healed the sick, told stories and preached sermons that taught that God wanted people to love Him with all their hearts, mind and soul as well as to love their neighbors as themselves. Jesus taught by example. By being loving and forgiving himself, Jesus taught others to be loving and forgiving - especially toward those who were considered outcasts in society.
Christianity Resources
Christianity Videos
Christianity Books
Rick Warren | As one of the bestselling nonfiction books in history, with more than 35 million copies sold, and more than 70 translations available, The Purpose Driven Life is far more than just a book; it's the road map for your spiritual journey. A journey that will transform your life.
Josh D. McDowell and Sean McDowell | The inspirational classic, More than a Carpenter, is now updated for a new generation of seekers with a fresh look, revised material, and a new chapter that addresses questions commonly raised today. Former skeptic Josh McDowell is now joined by his son Sean as they examine the evidence about Jesus. Is he really the Lord he claimed to be? How can we know for sure? More than a Carpenter offers arguments for faith from a skeptic turned believer. Since its original publication in 1977, this modern classic has sold over 15 million copies, been translated into dozens of languages, and introduced countless people to the real Jesus. Now with new content that addresses questions raised by today’s popular atheist writers.
Thomas à Kempis | This is a renowned Christian devotional book, first composed in Latin ca.1418-1427. It is a handbook for spiritual life arising from the Devotio Moderna movement, of which Kempis was a member. The Imitation is perhaps the most widely read devotional work next to the Bible, and is regarded as a devotional and religious classic. Its popularity was immediate, and it was printed 745 times before 1650. Apart from the Bible, no book has been translated into more languages than the Imitation of Christ. The text is divided into four books, which provide detailed spiritual instructions: "Helpful Counsels of the Spiritual Life", "Directives for the Interior Life", "On Interior Consolation" and "On the Blessed Sacrament". The approach taken in the Imitation is characterized by its emphasis on the interior life and withdrawal from the world, as opposed to an active imitation of Christ by other friars. The book places a high level of emphasis on the devotion to the Eucharist as key element of spiritual life.
Joel Osteen | Pastor Joel Osteen asks everyone to examine what he or she really believes. Why is this important? Because we will become what we believe. Our beliefs will prove either a barrier or vehicle as we strive to go higher, rise above our obstacles, and to live in health, abundance, and victory.
Christianity Classes & Learning
Christianity Through its Scriptures | Online Courses at Harvard University
Learn about Christianity through a study of its sacred scriptures. We will explore how diverse Christians have interpreted these writings and practiced their teachings over a 2000 year, global history.
Bible School | Christian Leaders Institute
Take free online Bible courses to equip you as a Christian leader or practitioner. Grow in your competence, confidence, and credibility to reach the world for Jesus Christ.
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