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'''NOT the Christianity article'''

'''Welcome'''

'''This is my sandbox for editing the Christianity Page for the purposes of streamlining it.'''
''' Discussion and colaboration is desired.'''

'''Issues addressed so far:'''
# Transfering extra Protestant and Catholic sections into subsets of the section on Scripture interpretation. (A careful reading of them reveals that they are essentially descriptive of scripture interpretation, and this move simplifies the too complicated structure of the article)
# Integrating 'History and origins' and 'Christian divisions' into one section on history, since you cannot discuss divisions outside of their historical placement, since there was needless duplication of material, and the sections themselves weren't terribly helpful.
# Editing the Persecution section into something more history centered (since it is in a section on history originally), breaking it apart into more useful chunks.

{{Christianity}}
'''Christianity''' ([[Hebrew language|Hebrew]]: נצרות) is a [[Monotheism#Christian view|monotheistic]]<ref name="Monotheism">{{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Monotheism|Monotheism]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}; [[William F. Albright]], ''From the Stone Age to Christianity''; [[H. Richard Niebuhr]], ; About.com, [http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/monotheisticreligions/ ''Monotheistic Religion resources'']; Jonathan Kirsch, ''God Against the Gods''; Linda Woodhead, ''An Introduction to Christianity''; [[Columbia Encyclopedia|The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia]] [http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/society/A0833762.html ''Monotheism'']; The New Dictionary of [[Cultural literacy|Cultural Literacy]], [http://www.bartleby.com/59/5/monotheism.html ''monotheism'']; New Dictionary of Theology, [http://www.ntwrightpage.com/Wright_NDCT_Paul.htm ''Paul''] pp. 496-99; David Vincent Meconi, "Pagan Monotheism in Late Antiquity" in ''Journal of Early Christian Studies'' pp. 111–12</ref> [[religion]] centered on the life and teachings of [[Jesus|Jesus of Nazareth]] as depicted in the [[New Testament]].<ref>[[BBC]], [http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/ ''BBC - Religion & Ethics - Christianity'']</ref>  Christianity teaches that Jesus is the [[Son of God]] and the [[Messiah]] [[Bible prophecy|prophesied]] in the [[Old Testament]], and that the [[New Testament]] records the [[Gospel]] that was [[revelation|revealed]] by Jesus.

Christianity began as a sect within [[Judaism]],<ref>Robinson, George. ''Essential Judaism: A Complete Guide to Beliefs, Customs and Rituals.'' New York: Pocket Books, 2000. pg 229.</ref> and includes the [[Tanakh|Hebrew Bible]] (known to Christians as the [[Old Testament]]) as well as the [[New Testament]] as its canonical scriptures.<ref name="sect1">{{bibleverse|Acts|3:1|NKJV}}; {{bibleverse-nb|Acts|5:27-42|NKJV}}; {{bibleverse-nb|Acts|21:18-26|NKJV}}; {{bibleverse-nb|Acts|24:5|NKJV}}; {{bibleverse-nb|Acts|24:14|NKJV}}; {{bibleverse-nb|Acts|28:22|NKJV}}; {{bibleverse-nb|Romans|1:16|NKJV}}; Tacitus, ''Annales'' xv 44; Josephus ''Antiquities'' xviii 3; Mortimer Chambers, ''The Western Experience Volume II'' chapter 5; ''The Oxford Dictionary of the Jewish Religion'' page 158.</ref> Like Judaism and [[Islam]], Christianity is classified as an [[Abrahamic religion]] (''see also, [[Judeo-Christian]]'').<ref name="J.Smith98">J.Z.Smith 98, p.276</ref><ref name="Anidjar2001">Anidjar 2001, p.3</ref>

The name ''"Christian"'' ([[Greek language|Greek]] {{lang|grc|''Χριστιανός''}} [http://www.blueletterbible.org/cgi-bin/strongs.pl?strongs=5546 Strong's G5546]), meaning ''"belonging to Christ"'' or ''"partisan of Christ"'',<ref>[http://www.lafayette.edu/press/magazine/June06/class.html Eric Ziolkowski, ''Making the familiar strange'']</ref> was first applied to the [[Disciple (Christianity)|disciples]] in [[Antioch]], as recorded in {{bibleverse|Acts|11:26|NKJV}}.<ref>E. Peterson, "Christianus" pp. 353-72</ref> The earliest recorded use of the term ''"Christianity"'' (Greek {{lang|grc|''Χριστιανισμός''}}) is by [[Ignatius of Antioch]].<ref>Walter Bauer, ''Greek-English Lexicon''; Ignatius [http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-magnesians-roberts.html Letter to the Magnesians] 10, [[Epistle to the Romans|Letter to the Romans]] ([http://www.ccel.org/fathers2/ANF-01/anf01-19.htm#P1838_311890 Roberts-Donaldson tr.], [http://earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-romans-lightfoot.html Lightfoot tr.], [http://www.ccel.org/l/lake/fathers/ignatius-romans.htm Greek-text]). However, an [http://earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-romans-roberts.html edition] presented on some websites, one that otherwise corresponds exactly with the Roberts-Donaldson translation, renders this passage to the interpolated inauthentic longer recension of Ignatius's letters, which does not contain the word "Christianity."</ref>

== Beliefs ==

In spite of important differences of interpretation and opinion, Christians in the Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant traditions share a common faith.<ref name="Olsen">Olson, Roger E. ''The Mosaic of Christian Belief.'' InterVarsity Press, 2002. {{ISBN|9780830826957}} Baptist theologian and professor at Truett Theological Semknary (Baylor Univ.)</ref> Although Christianity has always had a significant diversity of belief on controversial issues, most Christians share a common set of doctrines that they hold as essential to their faith. This common Christian heritage of beliefs has been given such titles as "the Good News of Jesus Christ,"<ref>{{bibleverse||Mark|1:1|NIV}}{{bibleverse||Romans|1:1|NIV}}</ref> “the Way”<ref>{{bibleverse||Acts|9:2|NIV}}{{bibleverse||Acts|22:4|NIV}}{{bibleverse||Acts|24:14|NIV}}</ref> and “mere Christianity,”<ref name="Olsen"/> among others.

=== Jesus the Christ ===
{{Main article|Jesus}}

As indicated by the name "Christianity," the focus of a Christian's life is a firm belief in [[Jesus]] as the Son of God and the ''[[Messiah]]'' or ''[[Christ]]''. The title "Messiah" comes from the [[Hebrew language|Hebrew]] word מָשִׁיחַ (''māšiáħ'') meaning ''anointed one''. The Greek translation {{lang|grc|''Χριστός''}} (''Christos'') is the source of the English word [[Christ (title)|''Christ'']].[[Image:Vladimirskaya.jpg|thumb|200px|left|A depiction of Jesus and Mary, the [[Theotokos of Vladimir]] (12th century)]]

Christians believe that, as the Messiah, Jesus was anointed as ruler and savior of humanity, and hold that Jesus' coming was the fulfillment of [[Messianic prophecies of Jesus|messianic prophecies]] of the [[Old Testament]]. The Christian concept of the Messiah differs significantly from [[Jewish Messiah|the contemporary Jewish concept]].<ref>Jewfaq.org, [http://www.jewfaq.org/moshiach.htm ''The Messiah'']</ref> The core Christian belief is that, through [[Death and Resurrection of Jesus|the death and resurrection of Jesus]], [[original sin|sinful]] humans can be reconciled to God and thereby are offered salvation and the promise of [[Immortality|eternal life]]. [Ref. ''For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.'' Romans 10:13 KJB]{{Jesus}}

While there have been theological disputes over the nature of Jesus, Christians generally believe that Jesus is [[Incarnation (Christianity)|God incarnate]] and "[[Hypostatic union|true God and true man]]" (or both fully divine and fully human). Jesus, [[Incarnation (Christianity)|having become fully human]] in all respects, suffered the pains and temptations of a mortal man, yet he did not sin. As fully God, he defeated death and rose to life again. According to the [[Bible]], "God raised him from the dead,"<ref>{{bibleverse||Acts|2:24|NIV}}, {{bibleverse||Romans|10:9|NIV}}, {{bibleverse|1|Cor|15:15|NIV}}, {{bibleverse||Acts|2:31-32}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|3:15}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|3:26}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|4:10}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|5:30}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|10:40-41}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|13:30}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|13:34}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|13:37}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|17:30-31}}, {{bibleverse|1|Cor|6:14}}, {{bibleverse|2|Cor|4:14}}, {{bibleverse||Gal|1:1}}, {{bibleverse||Eph|1:20}}, {{bibleverse||Col|2:12}}, {{bibleverse|1|Thess|1:10}}, {{bibleverse||Heb|13:20}}, {{bibleverse|1|Pet|1:3}}, {{bibleverse-nb|1|Pet|1:21}}</ref> he [[Ascension of Jesus Christ|ascended to heaven]], to the "right hand of God,"<ref>{{bibleverse||Mark|16:19}}, {{bibleverse||Luke|22:69}}, {{bibleverse||Acts|2:33}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|5:31}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Acts|7:55-56}}, {{bibleverse||Romans|8:34}}, {{bibleverse||Eph|1:20}}, {{bibleverse||Col|3:1}}, {{bibleverse||Hebrews|1:3}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Hebrews|1:13}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Hebrews|10:12}}, {{bibleverse-nb||Hebrews|12:2}}, {{bibleverse|1|Peter|3:22}}</ref> and he will [[Second Coming|return again]]<ref>{{bibleverse||Acts|1:9-11}}</ref> to fulfil the rest of [[Messianic prophecy]] such as the [[Resurrection of the dead]], the [[Last Judgment]] and establishment of the physical [[Kingdom of God]].

According to the [[Gospel]]s of Matthew and Luke, Jesus was conceived by the [[Holy Spirit]] and [[Nativity of Jesus|born]] from [[Mary (mother of Jesus)|the Virgin Mary]]. Little of Jesus' childhood is recorded in the [[canonical Gospels]], however [[infancy Gospels]] were popular in antiquity. In comparison, his adulthood, especially the week before his death, are well documented in the Gospels contained within the New Testament. The Biblical accounts of Jesus' ministry include: [[Baptism of Jesus|his baptism]], [[Miracles attributed to Jesus|miracles]], preaching, [[Ministry of Jesus|teaching, and deeds]].

=== The Death and Resurrection of Jesus ===
{{Main article|Death and Resurrection of Jesus}}

[[Image:Cristo Velázquez lou2.jpg|thumb|left|150px|The Crucifixion by Diego Velázquez (17th century)]]

Christians consider the resurrection of Jesus to be the cornerstone of their faith and the most important event in human history.<ref>{{bibleverse|1_Corinthians|15:13-17|NIV}}</ref><ref>Gospelcom.net, [http://dailywisdom.gospelcom.net/dw_static/dw-level2.html ''The Most Important Event in History'']; World-faiths.com, [http://www.world-faiths.com/Christianity/christianity.htm ''Christianity'']; [[Hank Hanegraaff]], ''Resurrection: The Capstone in the Arch of Christianity''</ref>

According to the Gospels, Jesus and his followers went to [[Jerusalem]] the week of the [[Passover]] where they were [[Palm Sunday|eagerly greeted]] by a crowd. In Jerusalem, Jesus [[Jesus and the money changers|drove money changers from the Temple]],<ref>According to the Synoptic Gospels ({{bibleverse|Matthew|21:12-13|NIV}} and parallel passages), this occurred in the last week of Jesus' life, but {{bibleverse|John|2:13-17|NIV}} narrates a similar event early in his account of Jesus' ministry.</ref> and predicted its destruction<ref>{{bibleverse|Matthew|24:1-2|NIV}}, {{bibleverse|Mark|13:2|NIV}}, {{bibleverse|Luke|21:5-6|NIV}}</ref> - heightening conflict with the Jewish authorities who were plotting his death.<ref>{{bibleverse|Mark|14:1|NIV}}</ref>

After sharing his [[Last Supper|last meal]] with his disciples, Jesus went to pray in the [[Garden of Gethsemane]] where he was betrayed by his disciple [[Judas Iscariot]] and [[Arrest of Jesus|arrested]] by the temple guard on orders from the [[Sanhedrin]] and the high priest [[Caiaphas]]. Jesus was [[Sanhedrin Trial of Jesus|convicted by the Sanhedrin]] of blasphemy and transferred to the [[Roman governor]] [[Pontius Pilate|Pilate]].  Pilate was pressured into crucifying Jesus by the nearly rioting crowds. Although the crowds were incited by the religious authorities, Jesus was sentenced to death for "inciting rebellion." Jesus died by late afternoon and was entombed.

Christians believe that God raised Jesus from the dead on the third day, that Jesus appeared to his apostles and other disciples, [[Great Commission|commissioned]] his disciples to "make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son (Jesus) and of the Holy Spirit."<ref>{{bibleverse|Matthew|28:19|NIV}}</ref> and then [[Ascension of Jesus Christ|ascended]] to [[heaven]]. Christians also believe that God the Father sent the Holy Spirit (or [[Paraclete]])<ref>{{bibleverse|John|20:21-22|NIV}}, {{bibleverse|Acts|2:1-4|NIV}}</ref> to the disciples.

The purpose of Jesus' death and resurrection is described in various doctrines of [[atonement]]. Some see Jesus as a [[Sacrifice]] ([[substitutionary atonement]]) made to ''take away the sin of the world'' ({{Bibleref2|John|1:29}}} in a manner similar to Old Testament sacrifices. Others see Jesus' dying and suffering on the cross as a sign and demonstration from God the Father that His Son was willing to endure the shame and suffering of the cross because of his [[agape]] (parental, self-sacrificing) love for humanity. In other Scriptures which record Jesus' death and resurrection, ''The Gospel According to St. John'' compares the crucifixion of Jesus to the lifting up of the [[Nehushtan]] (brass serpent) saying that "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." ({{Bibleref2|John|3:14-16}})

Many modern writers such as members of the [[Jesus Seminar]] and other Biblical scholars such as [[Michael Ramsey]] (a former [[Archbishop of Canterbury]]) have argued that the historical Jesus never claimed to be divine. [[John Hick]] observes that it is generally agreed among scholars today that Jesus did not claim to be God.<ref>"such evidence as there is has led the historians of the period to conclude, with an impressive degree of unanimity, that Jesus did not claim to be God incarnate," John Hick, ''The Metaphor of God Incarnate: Christology in a Pluralistic Age'', Westminster John Knox Press, 2006, page 27.</ref> Many also reject the historicity of the [[empty tomb]] (and thus a bodily resurrection) and many other events narrated in the gospels. They assert that Gospel accounts describing these things are probably literary fabrications.<ref>"The empty tomb is a fiction - Jesus did not raise ''(sic)'' bodily from the dead." front flap of ''Acts of Jesus''.</ref> However, many other scholars and historians maintain that the Gospel accounts of Jesus are, in fact, [[historical method|historically reliable]]: In terms of [[ancient history]], the New Testament sources were written a short time after the events,<ref>"The New Testament was complete, of substantially complete, about AD 100, the majority of the writings being in existence twenty to forty years before this ...the situation is encouraging from the historian's point of view, for the first three Gospels were written at a time when many were alive who could remember the things that Jesus said and did... At any rate, the time elapsing between the evangelic events and the writing of most of the New Testament books was, from the standpoint of historical research, satisfactorily short." Bruce, F. F.: ''The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable?'', pp. 12-14, InterVarsity Press, USA, 1997.</ref> and having been written, they encountered insignificant changes in later transcriptions and translations, according to scholars such as the late [[Frederic Kenyon|Sir Frederic Kenyon]].<ref>"The interval then between the dates of the original composition and the earliest extant evidence becomes so small as to be in fact negligible, and the last foundation for any doubt that the Sciptures have come down to us substantially as they were written has now been removed. Both the ''authenticity'' and the ''general integrity'' of the books of the New Testament may be regarded as finally established." As quoted in Bruce, F. F.: ''The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable?'', p. 20, InterVarsity Press, USA, 1997.</ref>

=== Salvation ===
{{Main article|Sin|Salvation}}

Christians believe [[salvation]] is a gift by means of the [[Divine grace|unmerited grace of God]], a gift from a loving heavenly Father who sent His only begotten Son Jesus to be their savior. Christians believe that, through faith in Jesus, one can be saved from [[sin]] and eternal [[death]]. The crucifixion of Jesus is explained as an [[Atonement|atoning]] [[Sacrifice#Sacrifice in Christianity|sacrifice]], which, in the words of the [[Gospel of John]], "takes away the sins of the world." One's reception of salvation is related to [[justification (theology)|justification]].<ref>{{bibleverse|Romans|6:23|NIV}}, {{bibleverse|Ephesians|2:8-9|NIV}}</ref>

The operation and effects of grace are understood differently by different traditions. [[Catholicism]] and Eastern Orthodoxy teach the necessity of the [[free will]] to cooperate with grace.<ref>Catechism of the Catholic Church, [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p3s1c3a2.htm Grace and Justification]</ref> [[Reformed theology]] places distinctive emphasis on grace by teaching that individuals are completely [[total depravity|incapable of self-redemption]], but the grace of God overcomes [[Irresistible grace|even the unwilling heart]].<ref>Westminster Confession, [http://www.pcanet.org/general/cof_chapvi-x.htm#chapx Chapter X];
[[Charles Spurgeon]], [http://www.spurgeon.org/calvinis.htm ''A Defense of Calvinism'']
</ref>

=== The Trinity ===
{{Main article|Trinity}}

[[Image:Andrej Rublëv 001.jpg|left|thumb|215px|The "Hospitality of Abraham" by Andrei Rublev: The three angels represent the three persons of God]]

==== Trinitarians ====

Most Christians believe that God is spirit ({{bibleverse||John|4:24}}), an uncreated, [[Omnipotence|omnipotent]], and eternal being, the creator and sustainer of all things, who works the redemption of the world through his Son, Jesus Christ. With this background, belief in the [[Christology|divinity of Christ]] and the Holy Spirit is expressed as the doctrine of the [[Holy Trinity]],<ref>J.N.D. Kelly, ''Early Christian Doctrines'' pp. 87-90; T. Desmond Alexander, ''New Dictionary of Biblical Theology'' pp. 514-515; Alister E. McGrath, ''Historical Theology'' p. 61.</ref> which describes the single Divine [[Ousia|''substance'']] existing as three distinct and inseparable ''persons'': the [[God the Father|Father]], the Son ([[Jesus|Jesus Christ]] the [[Jesus Christ the Logos|eternal Word]]), and the [[Holy Spirit]] ({{bibleref2|1John|5:7||1 John 5:7|KJV}}). According to this doctrine, God is not divided in the sense that each person has a third of the whole; rather, each person is considered to be fully God (''see [[Perichoresis]]''). The distinction lies in their relations, the Father being unbegotten, the Son begotten of the Father, and the Holy Spirit proceeding.<ref>Vladimir Lossky; [[Loraine Boettner]], [http://www.caledonianfire.org/caledonianfire/Boettner/trinity/t5.htm ''One Substance, Three Persons'']</ref> "Begotten," in these formulae, refers to the idea that Jesus was ''uncreated'' and "eternally begotten" of the Father.

Christians of [[Reformed theology]] also conceive salvation to be one work of the triune God in which "the three divine persons act together as one, and manifest their own proper characteristics" with the agency of the [[Holy Spirit]] as an essential element."<ref>For an example from Reformed theology, see: John Hendryx, [http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/monergism_short.html ''The Work of the Trinity in Monergism'']; for the Catholic view see: [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a1.htm#50 Catechism of the Catholic Church (paragraph 50)] part 1, section 2, Chapter Two.</ref>

Trinitarian Christians trace the orthodox formula of the Trinity — The Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost — back to the resurrected Jesus himself who spoke these words, and which words were subsequently recorded in {{bibleverse|Matthew|28:16-20|NIV}}, and are commonly referred to as the [[Great Commission]].

The "Indwelling of the Holy Spirit" has been called the "common privilege of all believers."<ref>Whitfield, George. ''The Indwelling of the Spirit, the common Privilege of all Believers.'' http://www.reformed.org/documents/index.html?mainframe=/documents/Whitefield/WITF_038.html</ref> {{bibleref2|John|20:22}} quotes Jesus as saying to His apostles, "Receive the Holy Spirit." They were to receive the Holy Spirit Himself in some way. Nearly all Christians speak of the "Indwelling of the Holy Spirit." The person who has "received the Holy Spirit" thereafter not only has [[Original sin|a sinful nature and carnal desires]]. According to this theological position, there now is also a second, competing, moral presence, that of the Holy Spirit, forever indwelling within him/her. From that point on, the person is able to see daily situations from either of two perspectives, and as a result, can choose to respond in a moral, Christian manner. However, the Christian often ignores these ethical, moral, positive thoughts inspired by the presence (indwelling) of the Holy Spirit, and respond in some selfish or lustful way as their own original nature desires.<ref name="Hamilton">Hamilton, James M. Jr. ''God's Indwelling Presence: The Holy Spirit in the Old And New Testaments.'' B&H Publishing, 2006. {{ISBN|0805443835}}. Havard School for Theological Studies</ref> ({{bibleverse|John|16:7-14|NIV}}; {{bibleverse|1_Corinthians|2:10|NIV}})

In [[Catholic]], Orthodox, and some [[Anglican]] theology, this indwelling is received through the ''sacrament'' called [[Confirmation (sacrament)|Confirmation]] or, in the East, [[Chrismation]]. In most Protestant traditions, the "Indwelling of the Holy Spirit" takes place in the action of [[Conversion to Christianity|becoming a Christian]].<ref name="Hamilton" />

The New Testament also teaches that the Holy Spirit inspired all Scripture,<ref>({{bibleverse|2_Timothy|3:16|NIV}} calls all Scripture "God-breathed"; {{bibleverse|2_Peter|1:21|NIV}})</ref> a belief shared by most Christians.<ref>''Catechism of the Catholic Church,'' [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a3.htm#II ''Sacred Scripture'']; ''Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy'', [http://www.spurgeon.org/~phil/creeds/chicago.htm ''online text''];</ref>

==== Non-Trinitarians ====
{{Main article|Nontrinitarianism}}

In antiquity, and again following the [[Reformation]], several sects advocated views contrary to the Trinity. These views were rejected by many bishops such as [[Irenaeus]] and subsequently by the [[Ecumenical Council]]s. During the Reformation (though most Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants accepted the value of many of the Councils) some groups rejected these councils as spiritually tainted.<ref>MacCulloch, ''Reformation'', p. 185, 187.</ref> [[Clemens Ziegler]], [[Casper Schwenckfeld]], and [[Melchior Hoffman]], advanced the view that Christ was only divine and not human. [[Michael Servetus]] denied that the traditional doctrine of the Trinity was necessary to defend the divinity of Christ. He claimed that Jesus was God Himself in the flesh.<ref>Servetus, Michael. Restoration of Christianity. Lewiston, New York: Edwin Mellen Press, 2007.</ref>

Modalists, such as [[Oneness Pentecostal]]s, regard God as a single person, with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit considered modes or roles by which the unipersonal God expresses himself.<ref>William Arnold, [http://www.apostolic.net/biblicalstudies/father.htm ''Is Jesus God the Father?'']; in this way they parallel ancient [[Sabellianism|Sabellians]], see: J. N. D. Kelly, ''Early Christian Doctrines'', p. 119-123; Robert Letham, ''The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship'', p. 97-98.</ref>

[[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints|Latter-day Saints]] (commonly called [[Mormonism|Mormons]]) accept the divinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but deny that they are the same being. Rather, they believe them to be separate beings united perfectly in will and purpose, thus making up one single [[Godhead (Latter Day Saints)|Godhead]].<ref>{{cite web | last =Hinckley | first = Gordon |title=First Presidency Message: The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost | work =Ensign | date=  March 1998|url=http://library.lds.org/nxt/gateway.dll/Magazines/Ensign/1998.htm/ensign%20march%201998.htm/first%20presidency%20message%20the%20father%20son%20and%20holy%20ghost.htm?fn=document-frame.htm&f=templates&2.0| accessdate =September 8, 2006}}</ref> They believe that the Father, like the Son, has a glorified physical body.

Present day groups who do not consider Jesus to be God include: [[Unitarianism|Unitarians]],<ref>On Unitarians, see: UUA.org, [http://www.uua.org/re/reach/fall01/curriculum/unitarian_views_of_jesus.html ''Unitarian Views of Jesus'']; on connection with Socinianism, see: sullivan-county.com, [http://www.sullivan-county.com/nf0/nov_2000/unitarian1.htm ''Socinianism: Unitarianism in 16th-17th century Poland and Its Influence''] (Note that the icon at the top of the page expresses Trinitarian theology with a symbolic hand gesture); on this matter they parallel the ancient [[Ebionites]], see: J.N.D. Kelly, ''Early Christian Doctrines'', p. 139.</ref>
descendants of Reformation era [[Socinianism|Socinians]], [[Christadelphians]],<ref>''One God or a Trinity?'', James and Deb Flint (Printland: Hyderabad). Assessed: 08-15-2007. Available [http://www.christadelphia.org/pamphlet/p_onegod.htm online]</ref> and [[Jehovah's Witnesses]].<ref>[[Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania]], [http://www.watchtower.org/library/ti/article_05.htm '' What Does the Bible Say About God and Jesus?'']</ref>

=== Scriptures ===
{{Main article|Bible}}

{{See also|Criticism of the Bible}}

Christianity regards the Holy [[Bible]], a collection of [[Biblical canon|canonical]] books in two parts (the [[Old Testament]] and the [[New Testament]]) as authoritative: written by human authors under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and therefore the [[Biblical inerrancy|inerrant]] Word of God.<ref>[[Catechism of the Catholic Church]], [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a3.htm#II ''Inspiration and Truth of Sacred Scripture'' (§105-108)]; Second Helvetic Confession, [http://www.creeds.net/reformed/helvetic/c01.htm ''Of the Holy Scripture Being the True Word of God'']; [[Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy]], [http://www.reformed.org/documents/icbi.html ''online text'']</ref> Protestants believe that the Holy Scriptures contain all [[Revelation|revealed truth]] necessary for salvation (See [[Sola scriptura]]).<ref>Thirty-nine Articles; Westminster Catechism, [http://www.reformed.org/documents/larger1.html Q. 3]; [[James White]], [http://www.aomin.org/SolaTop.html ''Does The Bible Teach Sola Scriptura?'']</ref>

The Old Testament contains the entire Jewish [[Tanakh]], though in the Christian canon, the books are ordered differently, and some books of the Tanakh are divided into several books by the Christian canon. While these books are part of the Christian canon, scholars of [[Judaism]] generally teach that Christians misinterpret passages from the [[Old Testament]], or [[Tanakh]]. (See also [[Christianity and Judaism]].) The Catholic and Orthodox canons include the Hebrew Jewish canon and other books (from the Septuagint Greek Jewish canon) which Catholics call [[Deuterocanonical books|Deuterocanonical]], while Protestants consider them [[Biblical apocrypha|Apocrypha]].<ref name="Canon">F.F. Bruce, ''The Canon of Scripture''; Catechism of the Catholic Church, [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a3.htm#IV, ''The Canon of Scripture'' § 120]; Thirty-nine Articles</ref>

The first four books of the New Testament are the [[Gospels]] ([[Gospel of Matthew|Matthew]], [[Gospel of Mark|Mark]], [[Gospel of Luke|Luke]] and [[Gospel of John|John]]), which recount the life and teachings of Jesus. The first three are often called [[Synoptic Gospels|synoptic]] because of the amount of material they share. The remainder of the New Testament consists of:

# a sequel to Luke's Gospel which describes the very early history of the Church (the [[Acts of the Apostles]]),
# a collection of letters from early Christian leaders to congregations or individuals, (the [[Pauline epistles|Pauline]] and [[General epistles]]), and the
# [[Apocalyptic literature|Apocalyptic]] [[Book of Revelation]].<ref name="Canon" />

The [[Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church]] maintains two canons,

# the Narrow Canon (itself larger than any Biblical canon outside Ethiopia), and
# the Broad Canon (which has even more books.)<ref>Ethiopian Orthodox Old Testament, [http://gbgm-umc.org/umw/bible/ethold.stm ''The Bible: The Book That Bridges the Millennia'']</ref>

Campaigning to be a [[Restorationism|restoration]] of the Christian church,<ref>Mormon.org, [http://www.mormon.org/mormonorg/eng/basic-beliefs/the-restoration-of-truth/heavenly-father-reveals-his-gospel-to-all ''Heavenly Father Reveals His Gospel To All'']</ref> denominations of the [[Latter Day Saint movement]] (commonly called [[Mormons]]) are distinct from other forms of Christianity in that they consider the [[Book of Mormon]] holy scripture and comparable to the Bible.<ref>[[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]], [http://scriptures.lds.org/en/bm/introduction ''Book of Mormon, Introduction'']</ref> [[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]] also considers the [[Doctrine and Covenants]] and the [[Pearl of Great Price (Mormonism)|Pearl of Great Price]] scriptural. Along with the Bible (the preferred English translation is the King James Version), these books are collectively called the ''[[Standard Works]]'' of the church.<ref>[[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]], [http://scriptures.lds.org ''The Scriptures, Internet Edition'']</ref>

==== Interpretation ====

Though Christians largely agree on the content of the Bible, there is significant divergence in its interpretation, or [[exegesis]]. In antiquity, two schools of exegesis developed in [[Alexandria]] and [[School of Antioch|Antioch]]. Alexandrine interpretation, exemplified by [[Origen]], tended to read Scripture [[allegory|allegorically]], while Antiochene interpretation adhered to the literal sense, holding that other meanings (called ''theoria'') could only be accepted if based on the literal meaning.<ref>J.N.D. Kelly, ''Early Christian Doctrines'' pp. 69-78.</ref>

===== Catholic =====
{{Main article|Catholicism}}
Catholic theology distinguishes two senses of scripture: the literal and the spiritual.<ref>Catechism of the Catholic Church, [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a3.htm#III, ''The Holy Spirit, Interpreter of Scripture'' § 115-118]</ref>

The ''literal'' sense of understanding scripture is the meaning conveyed by the words of Scripture and discovered by exegesis, following the rules of sound interpretation. It has three subdivisions: the allegorical, moral, and [[Anagoge|anagogical]] (meaning mystical or spiritual) senses.

* The ''allegorical'' sense includes [[Typology (theology)|typology]]. An example would be the [[Passage of the Red Sea|parting of the Red Sea]] being understood as a "type" (sign) of baptism.<ref>{{bibleverse|1_Corinthians|10:2|NIV}}</ref>
* The ''moral'' sense understands the scripture to contain some ethical teaching.
* The ''anagogical'' interpretation includes [[eschatology]] and applies to eternity and the [[Apocalypse|consummation of the world]].

Catholic theology also adds other rules of interpretation which include:

# the injunction that all other senses of sacred scripture are based on the ''literal''<ref>Thomas Aquinas, [http://www.newadvent.org/summa/100110.htm "Whether in Holy Scripture a word may have several senses"]; cf. ''Catechism of the Catholic Church,'' [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a3.htm#III §116]</ref>
# that the historicity of the Gospels must be absolutely and constantly held<ref>[[Second Vatican Council]] [http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19651118_dei-verbum_en.html ''Dei Verbum'' (V.19)]</ref>
# that scripture must be read within the "living Tradition of the whole Church"<ref>''Catechism of the Catholic Church,'' [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a3.htm#III "The Holy Spirit, Interpreter of Scripture" § 113]</ref> and
# that "the task of interpretation has been entrusted to the bishops in communion with the successor of Peter, the [[Bishop of Rome]]"<ref>''Catechism of the Catholic Church,'' [http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a2.htm#III "The Interpretation of the Heritage of Faith" § 85]</ref>

===== Protestant =====
{{Main article|Protestantism}}
Many Protestants stress the literal sense or [[historical-grammatical method]],<ref>R.C. Sproul, ''Knowing Scripture'' pp. 45-61; [[Greg Bahnsen]], [http://www.cmfnow.com/articles/pt173.htm ''A Reformed Confession Regarding Hermeneutics'' (art. 6)]</ref> even to the extent of rejecting other senses altogether. Other Protestant interpreters make use of typology.<ref>E.g., in his [http://eword.gospelcom.net/comments/matthew/mh/matthew1.htm commentary on Matthew 1] (§III.3) [[Matthew Henry]] interprets the twin-sons of Judah, Phares and Zara, as an allegory of the Gentile and [[Jewish Christians]]. For a contemporary treatment, see W. Edward Glenny, [http://www.biblicalstudies.org.uk/article_typology_glenny.html ''Typology: A Summary Of The Present Evangelical Discussion'']</ref> Protestants characteristically believe that ordinary believers may reach an adequate understanding of Scripture because Scripture itself is clear (or "perspicuous"), because of the help of the Holy Spirit, or both. Martin Luther believed that without God's help Scripture would be "enveloped in darkness."<ref name="Foutz" /> He advocated "one definite and simple understanding of Scripture."<ref name="Foutz">Scott Foutz, [http://www.quodlibet.net/luther.shtml '' Martin Luther and Scripture'']</ref> And [[John Calvin]] wrote, "all who…follow the Holy Spirit as their guide, find in the Scripture a clear light."<ref>John Calvin, [http://www.ccel.org/c/calvin/comment3/comm_vol45/htm/vii.iv.iv.htm '' Commentaries on the Catholic Epistles'' 2 Peter 3:14-18]</ref> The Second Helvetic (Latin for "Swiss")<ref>http://mb-soft.com/believe/txh/helvconf.htm Article about Helvetic confessions</ref> Confession, composed by the pastor of the Reformed church in Zurich (successor to Protestant reformer [[Zwingli]]) was adopted as a declaration of doctrine by most European Reformed churches.<ref>Second Helvetic Confession, [http://www.creeds.net/reformed/helvetic/c02.htm ''Of Interpreting the Holy Scriptures; and of Fathers, Councils, and Traditions'']</ref> The ''Confession'' contains this statement about interpreting Scripture:

{{quotation|"We hold that interpretation of the Scripture to be orthodox and genuine which is gleaned from the Scriptures themselves (from the nature of the language in which they were written, likewise according to the circumstances in which they were set down, and expounded in the light of like and unlike passages and of many and clearer passages)." The writings of the Church Fathers, and decisions of Ecumenical Councils, though "not despise<nowiki>[d]</nowiki>," were not authoritative and could be rejected.|''Second Helvetic Confession'' (1566)}}

=== Creeds ===
{{Main article|Creeds}}

Creeds (from Latin ''credo'' meaning "I believe") are concise doctrinal statements or confessions, usually of religious beliefs. They began as baptismal formulas and were later expanded during the [[Christology|Christological]] controversies of the [[4th century|fourth]] and [[5th century|fifth centuries]] to become statements of faith.

{{Wikisource|Apostles Creed}}

The [[Apostles Creed]] (''Symbolum Apostolorum'') was developed between the second and ninth centuries. It is the most popular creed used in worship by Western Christians. Its central doctrines are those of the Trinity and God the Creator. Each of the doctrines found in this creed can be traced to statements current in the apostolic period. The creed was apparently used as a summary of Christian doctrine for baptismal candidates in the churches of Rome. An even earlier creed was Paul's doctrinal statement recorded in {{bibleref2|1Cor|15:1-9||1 Corinthians 15:1-9}}.

{{Wikisource|Nicene Creed}}

The [[Nicene Creed]], largely a response to [[Arianism]], was formulated at the Councils of [[First Council of Nicaea|Nicaea]] and [[First Council of Constantinople|Constantinople]] in 325 and 381 respectively,<ref>Catholics United for the Faith, [http://www.cuf.org/faithfacts/details_view.asp?ffID=191 "We Believe in One God"]; ''Encyclopedia of Religion,'' "Arianism"</ref> and ratified as the universal creed of Christendom by the [[Council of Ephesus]] in 431.<ref name="ephesus">{{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Council of Ephesus|Council of Ephesus]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}</ref>

The [[Chalcedonian Creed]], developed at the [[Council of Chalcedon]] in 451,<ref>[[Matt Slick]], [http://www.carm.org/creeds/chalcedonian.htm ''Chalcedonian Creed'']; [[History of Christianity|Christian History]] Institute, [http://chi.gospelcom.net/DAILYF/2003/10/daily-10-08-2003.shtml ''First Meeting of the Council of Chalcedon'']</ref>
though not accepted by the [[Oriental Orthodox]] Churches,<ref>[[British Orthodox Church]], [http://www.britishorthodox.org/113e.php ''The Oriental Orthodox Rejection of Chalcedon'']</ref> taught Christ "to be acknowledged in two natures, inconfusedly, unchangeably, indivisibly, inseparably": one divine and one human, and that both natures are perfect but are nevertheless [[Hypostatic union|perfectly united into one person]].<ref>Pope Leo I, [http://www.dailycatholic.org/history/4ecumen2.htm ''Letter to Flavian'']</ref>

The [[Athanasian Creed]] ([[Athanasian Creed#English-Language Translations|English translations]]), received in the western Church as having the same status as the Nicene and Chalcedonian, says: "We worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; neither confounding the Persons not dividing the Substance."<ref>{{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Athanasian Creed|Athanasian Creed]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}</ref>

Most Protestants accept the Creeds. Some Protestant traditions believe Trinitarian doctrine without making use of the Creeds themselves,<ref>E.g., The [[Southern Baptist Convention]] gives no official status to any of the ancient creeds, but the [[Baptist Faith and Message]] says:

: The eternal triune God reveals Himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being.[http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfm2000.asp#ii]</ref> while other Protestants, like the [[Restoration Movement]], oppose the use of creeds.<ref>[http://www.appiusforum.com/restoration.html "The History of the Church"], Howard A. White</ref>

=== Afterlife and Eschaton ===
{{Main article|Christian eschatology}}

Most Christians believe that upon bodily death the [[soul]] experiences the [[particular judgment]] and is either rewarded with eternal [[heaven]] or condemned to an eternal [[hell]]. The elect are called "saints" (Latin ''sanctus'': "holy") and the process of being made holy is called sanctification. In Catholicism, those who die in a state of grace but with either unforgiven venial sins or incomplete [[penance]], undergo purification in [[purgatory]] to achieve the holiness necessary for entrance into heaven.

At the [[Second Coming|last coming of Christ]], the ''eschaton'' or [[eschatology|end of time]], all who have died will be [[Resurrection of the dead|resurrected bodily from the dead]] for the [[Last Judgement]], whereupon Jesus will fully establish the [[Kingdom of God]] in fulfillment of [[Bible prophecy|scriptural prophecies]].<ref name="res">See, e.g., [[Thomas Aquinas]], [http://www.newadvent.org/summa/5.htm ''Summa Theologicum, Supplementum Tertiae Partis''] questions 69 through 99; and John Calvin, [http://www.reformed.org/books/institutes/books/book3/bk3ch25.html ''Institutes of the Christian Religion'', Book Three, Ch. 25].</ref>

Some groups do not distinguish a particular judgment from the [[general judgment]] at the end of time, teaching instead that souls remain in stasis until this time (see [[Soul sleep]]). These groups, and others that do not believe in the [[intercession]] of saints, generally do not employ the word "saint" to describe those in heaven. [[Universal reconciliation|Universalists]] hold that eventually all will experience salvation, thereby rejecting the concept of an eternal hell for those who are not saved.

== Worship and practices ==

=== Christian life ===

[[Image:Bloch-SermonOnTheMount.jpg|thumb|300px|right|[[Christians]] believe that [[Jesus]] is the mediator of the [[New Covenant]] (see [http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=65&chapter=8&version=47 Hebrews 8:6] and [http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1tim2:5&version=31 1Timothy2:5]). His famous [[Sermon on the Mount]] is considered by many Christian scholars to be the [[Typology (theology)|antitype]]<ref>See also [[Expounding of the Law#Antithesis of the Law|Antithesis of the Law]].</ref> of the proclamation of the [[Ten Commandments|Old Covenant]] by [[Moses]] from [[Mount Sinai]]]]

Christians believe that all people should strive to follow Christ's commands and example in their everyday actions ({{bibleref2|Romans|13:14}}). For many, this includes obedience to the [[Old Testament#Christian view of the Law|Ten Commandments]]. Jesus made it clear that He did not come to abolish the Law or the Prophets, but to fulfill them ({{bibleref2|Matthew|5:17}}). In response to a "catch" question from a [[Pharisee]] as to which is the [[Ministry of Jesus#General Ethics|greatest commandment]] in the Old Testament Law, Jesus replied: {{quotation|'Love<ref name="Agape">Agapao ([[Agape]])(ἀγαπάω), Strong's G25</ref> the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'<ref>{{Bibleref2|Deuteronomy|6:5}}</ref> This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love<ref name="Agape" /> your neighbor as yourself.'<ref>{{Bibleref2|Leviticus|19:18}}</ref> All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."|{{Bibleref2|Matthew|22:37-40}}}} In the [[KJV]], this kind of love was usually translated "charity" to differentiate it as being intentional and decisional, not an emotional response. This love includes such injunctions as "feed the hungry" and "shelter the homeless," and applies to [[Expounding of the Law#Love for enemies|friend and enemy alike]]. The relationship between charity and religious practice is sometimes taken for granted today as [[Martin Goodman (historian)|Martin Goodman]] has observed: "charity in the Jewish and Christian sense was unknown to the pagan world."<ref>Martin Goodman, ''The Ruling Class of Judaea: The Origins of the Jewish Revolt Against Rome AD 66-70'', [[Cambridge University Press]], p.65</ref> Other Christian practices include acts of [[piety]] such as [[prayer]] and Bible reading.

Christianity teaches that one can overcome sin only through divine grace: moral and spiritual progress can occur only with God's help through the gift of the [[Holy Spirit]] dwelling within the believer. It also teaches that, by believing in Christ, and sharing in Christ's life, death, and resurrection, God's children become dead to sin and are resurrected to a new life with Him.

==== Christian Love (Agape) ====
{{Main article|Christian Love}}

{{See also|1 Corinthians 13}}

A prominent Christian belief is that love is a primary value. {{{Bibleref2|Matthew|22:36-40}}} ''''Άgapē'''' has been used in different ways by a variety of contemporary and ancient sources, including [[Bible|Biblical]] authors. Many have supposed that ''''agapē'''' represents divine, unconditional, self-sacrificing, active, volitional, and thoughtful [[love]]. Greek philosophers at the time of [[Plato]] and other ancient authors, used ''''agapē'''' to denote love of a spouse or family, or affection for a particular activity, in contrast to ''[[philia]]'' — an affection that could denote either brotherhood or generally non-sexual affection, and ''[[Eros (love)|eros]]'', an affection of a sexual nature, usually between man and woman. The Greek Old Testament uses the word ''eros'' only twice, while the New Testament does not use it at all.<ref>"The Unity of Love in Creation and in Salvation History." http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/encyclicals/documents/hf_ben-xvi_enc_20051225_deus-caritas-est_en.html</ref> The word ''agape'' is rarely used in ancient manuscripts, but was used by the early Christians to refer to the self-sacrificing love of [[God]] for humanity, which they were committed to reciprocating and practicing toward God and among one another. ''Άgapē'' has been expounded upon by many Christian writers in a specifically Christian context. [[Thomas Jay Oord]] has defined ''agape'' as "an intentional response to promote well-being when responding to that which has generated ill-being." ''Άgapē'' received a broader usage under later Christian writers as the word that specifically denoted "Christian" love or "[[charity (virtue)|charity]]" ({{bibleref2|1Corinthians|13:1–8||1 Corinthians 13:1-8}}), or even God himself [''Theos ein agape'', ..". for God is Love." ({{Bibleref2|1John|4:8||1 John 4:8}})]. Various senses of ''agapē'' are used throughout the [[New Testament]], some expanding the meanings used in ancient texts, and rendered as: brotherly love, love of one's spouse or children, and the love of God for all people.

Christian writers have generally described ''''agapē'''' as a form of love which is both unconditional and voluntary; that is, it is non-discriminating, has no pre-conditions, and is something that one decides to do. [[Tertullian]], in his 2nd century defense of Christians remarks how Christian love attracted pagan notice: "What marks us in the eyes of our enemies is our loving kindness. 'Only look' they say, 'look how they love one another'" (''Apology'' 39).

=== Worship ===

[[Justin Martyr]] described second century Christian [[liturgy]] in his ''[[First Apology]]'' (''c''. 150) to [[Roman Emperor|Emperor]] [[Antoninus Pius]], and his description remains relevant to the basic structure of Christian liturgical worship:

[[Image:Thebible33.jpg|200px|left|thumb|The Holy Bible, [[Crucifix]], and [[Rosary]]]]

: "And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place, and the memoirs of the apostles or the writings of the prophets are read, as long as time permits; then, when the reader has ceased, the president verbally instructs, and exhorts to the imitation of these good things. Then we all rise together and pray, and, as we before said, when our prayer is ended, bread and wine and water are brought, and the president in like manner offers prayers and thanksgivings, according to his ability, and the people assent, saying Amen; and there is a distribution to each, and a participation of that over which thanks have been given, and to those who are absent a portion is sent by the deacons. And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and in a word takes care of all who are in need."<ref name="First Apology">Justin Martyr, [http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-firstapology.html ''First Apology''] §LXVII</ref>

Thus, as Justin described, Christians assemble for communal worship on Sunday, the day of the resurrection, though other liturgical practices often occur outside this setting. Scripture readings are drawn from the Old and New Testaments, but especially the Gospels. Often these are arranged on an [[annual cycle]], using a book called a [[lectionary]]. Instruction is given based on these readings, called a [[sermon]], or homily. There are a variety of congregational [[prayer]]s, including thanksgiving, confession, and intercession, which occur throughout the service and take a variety of forms including recited, responsive, silent, or sung. The [[Lord's Prayer]], or Our Father, is regularly prayed. The Eucharist (also called [[Holy Communion]], or the [[Eucharist|Lord's Supper]]) consists of a ritual meal of consecrated bread and wine, discussed in detail below. Lastly, a collection occurs in which the congregation donates money for the support of the Church and for [[Charitable organization|charitable work]].

Some groups depart from this traditional liturgical structure. A division is often made between "[[High church|High]]" [[church service]]s, characterized by greater solemnity and ritual, and "[[Low church|Low]]" services, but even within these two categories there is great diversity in forms of worship. [[Seventh-day Adventists]] meet on Saturday (the original [[Sabbath in Christianity|Sabbath]]), while others do not meet on a weekly basis. [[Charismatic movement|Charismatic]] or [[Pentecostal]] congregations may spontaneously feel led by the Holy Spirit to action rather than follow a formal order of service, including spontaneous prayer. [[Society of Friends|Quakers]] sit quietly until moved by the Holy Spirit to speak. Some [[Evangelicalism|Evangelical]] services resemble concerts with [[Christian rock|rock and pop music]], dancing, and use of multimedia. For groups which do not recognize a priesthood distinct from ordinary believers the services are generally lead by a [[minister of religion|minister]], [[preacher]], or [[pastor]]. Still others may lack any formal leaders, either in principle or by local necessity. Some churches use only [[a cappella]] music, either on principle (e.g. many [[Churches of Christ]] object to the use of instruments in worship) or by tradition (as in Orthodoxy).

Worship can be varied for special events like [[baptism]]s or [[wedding]]s in the service or significant [[Calendar of saints|feast days]]. In the [[Early Christianity|early church]] Christians and those yet to complete initiation would separate for the Eucharistic part of the worship. In many churches today, adults and children will separate for all or some of the service to receive age-appropriate teaching. Such children's worship is often called [[Sunday school]] or [[Sabbath School|Sabbath school]] (Sunday schools are often held before rather than during services).

==== Sacraments ====
{{Main article|Sacrament}}

[[Image:Fractio-panis1.JPG|right|thumb|200px|The [[Eucharist]]]]

A [[sacrament]] is a Christian rite that is an outward sign of an inward grace, instituted by Christ to sanctify humanity. Catholic, Orthodox, and some [[Anglicanism|Anglican]] Christians describe [[Christian worship|worship]] in terms of seven sacraments: [[Baptism]], [[Confirmation (sacrament)|Confirmation]] or [[Chrismation]], [[Eucharist]] (communion), [[Penance]] (reconciliation), [[Anointing of the Sick]] (last rites), [[Holy Orders]] (ordination), and [[Catholic marriage|Matrimony]].<ref>For Catholicism: see ''Catechism of the Catholic Church'' §1210</ref> Many Protestant groups, which grew out of the [[Protestant Reformation|Reformation]],<ref>Martin Luther, ''Small Catechism''</ref> recognize the sacramental nature of Baptism and Eucharist, but not usually the other five in the same way, while other Protestant groups reject sacramental theology. Some [[Christian denominations]] who believe these rites to do not communicate grace prefer to call them ''[[Ordinance (Christian)|ordinances]]''. Though not sacraments, [[Pentecostalism|Pentecostal]], [[Charismatic movement|Charismatic]], and [[Holiness Churches]] emphasize "[[gifts of the Spirit]]" such as [[spiritual healing]], [[prophecy]], [[exorcism]], [[glossolalia]] (speaking in tongues), and [[laying on of hands]] where God's grace is mysteriously manifest.

{{See also| Anglican sacraments}}

{{See also| Sacrament (Community of Christ)}}

{{See also| Sacraments of the Catholic Church}}

==== Eucharist ====
{{Main article|Eucharist}}

The [[Eucharist]] (also called [[Holy Communion]], or the [[Eucharist|Lord's Supper]]) is the part of liturgical worship that consists of a consecrated meal, usually bread and wine. Justin Martyr described the Eucharist as follows:

: "And this food is called among us Eukaristia [the Eucharist], of which no one is allowed to partake but the man who believes that the things which we teach are true, and who has been washed with the washing that is for the remission of sins, and unto regeneration, and who is so living as Christ has enjoined. For not as common bread and common drink do we receive these; but in like manner as Jesus Christ our Saviour, having been made flesh by the Word of God, had both flesh and blood for our salvation, so likewise have we been taught that the food which is blessed by the prayer of His word, and from which our blood and flesh by transmutation are nourished, is the flesh and blood of that Jesus who was made flesh."<ref name="First Apology"/>

Orthodox, Methodists, Roman Catholics, Lutherans, and many Anglicans believe that [[Jesus Christ]] is present in the elements of bread and the cup (the doctrine of the [[Real Presence]]). Most other Protestants, especially Reformed, believe the bread and wine merely ''represent'' the body and blood of Christ. These Protestants may celebrate it less frequently, while in the Roman Catholic Church the Eucharist is celebrated daily (but not on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.<ref>{{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Good Friday|Good Friday]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}</ref>). Some [[Christian denominations]] view communion as indicating those who are already united in the church, restricting participation to their members not in a state of [[mortal sin]] ([[closed communion]]). Most other churches view communion as a means to unity, rather than an end, and invite all Christians or even anyone to participate ([[open communion]]). In some denominations, participation is by prior arrangement with a church leader.

==== Liturgical calendar ====
{{Main article|Liturgical year}}

In the New Testament [[Paul of Tarsus]] organised his missionary travels around the celebration of [[Pentecost]]. (Acts 20.16 and 1 Corinthians 16.8) This practice draws from Jewish tradition, with such feasts as the [[Feast of Tabernacles]], the [[Passover]], and the [[Jubilee (Biblical)|Jubilee]]. Today Catholics, Eastern Christians, and traditional Protestant communities frame worship around a [[Liturgical year|liturgical calendar]]. This includes [[Holy Day of Obligation|holy days]], such as [[Solemnity|solemnities]] which commemorate an event in the life of Jesus or the [[saint]]s, periods of [[fasting]] such as [[Lent]], and other pious events such as [[memoria]] or lesser festivals commemorating saints. Christian groups that do not follow a liturgical tradition often retain certain celebrations, such as [[Christmas]], [[Easter]] and [[Pentecost]]. A few churches make no use of a liturgical calendar.

=== Symbols ===
{{Main article|Christian symbolism}}

[[Image:Ephesus IchthysCrop.jpg|thumb|right|An early circular [[ichthys]] symbol, created by combining the Greek letters ΙΧΘΥΣ into a wheel. [[Ephesus]], Asia Minor.]]

Today the best-known Christian symbol is the [[Christian cross|cross]], which refers to the method of Jesus' execution.<ref>Catholic-resources.org, [http://catholic-resources.org/Art/Koch-ChristianSymbols.htm ''Christian Symbols'']</ref> Several varieties exist, with some denominations tending to favor distinctive styles: Catholics the [[crucifix]], Orthodox the [[crux orthodoxa]], and Protestants an unadorned cross.

An earlier Christian symbol was the '[[ichthys]]' fish (Greek Alpha - α) symbol and anagram. Other text based symbols are Greek abbreviations for Jesus Christ, originally with superlineation,<ref>[http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Image:JesustheChrist.jpg Coptic Gospel of John (17: 3) translated by Sir Herbert Thompson]</ref> to include <span style="text-decoration: overline;">IHC</span> and [[Christogram|ICXC]] and [[Labarum|chi-rho]] (the first two letters of the word Christ in Greek). In the Greek alphabet, the Chi-Rho appears like an ''X'' (Chi - χ) with a large ''P'' (Rho - ρ) overlaid and above it. It is said [[Constantine I and Christianity|Constantine]] saw this symbol prior to converting to Christianity (see History and origins section below). The variation <span style="text-decoration: overline;">IHS</span> of the ''[[nomina sacra]]'' is latinized Greek representing the first three letters of the Latin name, Iesus. Another ancient symbol is an [[anchor]], which denotes faith and can incorporate a cross within its design.

== History of Christianity ==
{{Main article|History of Christianity}}

{{See also|Pauline Christianity}}.

{{See also|Timeline of Christianity|Early Christianity}}

{{See also|Christian philosophy|Christian art|Christian literature|Christian music|Christian architecture}}

=== Persecution -ISSUES HERE-===
'''This section is not rightly considered a part of Christian history. It needs to be formated to be more historical, with commentary upon Christian perpetration of persecution moved elsewhere. Maybe Christian life.'''

{{Main article|Persecution of Christians|Historical persecution by Christians}}

Starting with [[Jesus]], the early Christian church was persecuted by state and religious establishments from its earliest beginnings. Notable early Christians such as [[Saint Stephen|Stephen]], eleven of the Apostles as well as [[Paul of Tarsus|Paul]] died as martyrs according to tradition. Systematic Roman persecution of Christians culminated in the [[Diocletian#Persecution of Christians|Great Persecution]] of Diocletian and ended with the [[Edict of Milan]].<ref>ChristianityToday.com, ''[http://ctlibrary.com/3744 The Edict of Milan]'' (313)</ref> Persecution of Christians persisted or even intensified in other places, such as in [[Sassanids|Sassanid Persia]].<ref>Macro History, [http://www.fsmitha.com/h1/ch22c.htm ''The Sassanids to 500 AD'']</ref> Later Christians living in [[Islam]]ic countries were subjected to various legal restrictions, which included taxation and a ban on building or repairing churches. Christians at times also suffered violent persecution or confiscation of their property.<ref>Lewis (1984), p. 26)</ref>

There was persecution of Christians during the [[French Revolution]] (see [[Dechristianisation of France during the French Revolution]]).<ref>Mortimer Chambers, ''The Western Experience'' (vol. 2) chapter 21</ref> State restrictions on Christian practices today are generally associated with those authoritarian governments which either support a majority religion other than Christianity (as in [[Muslim]] states),<ref>Paul Marshall, ''Their Blood Cries Out''; Worldnetdaily.com, [http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=24886 ''Christians persecuted in Islamic nations'']</ref> or tolerate only churches under government supervision, sometimes while officially promoting state [[atheism]] (as in the [[Soviet Union]]). The [[People's Republic of China]] allows only government-regulated churches and has regularly suppressed [[house churches]] and underground Catholics. The public practice of Christianity is outlawed in [[Status of religious freedom in Saudi Arabia|Saudi Arabia]]. Areas of persecution include other parts of the [[Middle East]], the [[Sudan]], and [[Kosovo]].<ref>see [http://www.christianmonitor.org/ christianmonitor.org]; and Cliff Kincaid, [http://www.aim.org/media_monitor/4610_0_2_0_C/ aim.org ''Christians Under Siege in Kosovo'']</ref>

Christians have also been perpetrators of persecution against other religions and other Christians. Christian mobs, sometimes with government support, destroyed [[Paganism|pagan]] temples and persecuted or even killed adherents of paganism (e.g. the philosopher [[Hypatia of Alexandria]]). Also, [[Jewish]] communities have periodically suffered violence at Christian hands. Christian governments have suppressed or persecuted groups seen as heretical, later in cooperation with the [[Inquisition]]. Denominational strife escalated into [[religious wars]]. [[Witch hunts]], carried out by secular authorities or popular mobs, were a frequent phenomenon in parts of [[early modern Europe]] and, to a lesser degree, North America.

===Ancient through Medieval History===

[[Image:VirgenNino.jpg|thumb|Virgin and Child. Wall painting from the early [[catacombs]], Rome, 4th century.]]

The history of Christianity is the history of the Christian religion and Church, from Jesus and his [[Twelve Apostles]] to contemporary times.

In the mid-first century, Christianity spread beyond its Jewish origins. The New Testament depicts this as occurring under the leadership of the Apostles, especially [[Saint Peter|Peter]] and [[Paul of Tarsus|Paul]]. Some scholars even consider [[Paul of Tarsus|Paul]] to be the founding figure of Christianity, pointing to the extent of his writings and the scope of his [[Missionary|missionary work]].<ref>David Wenham, ''Paul: Follower of Jesus or Founder of Christianity?''</ref> (See also [[Pauline Christianity]]). Within a generation an episcopal hierarchy can be seen, and this would form the structure of the Church.<ref>Catholic Encyclopedia, [http://www.newadvent.org/fathers/3801.htm ''Canons of the Council of Nicaea''], especially canon 6.</ref> In 301 Christianity became a state-religion in [[Armenia]] being the first country to accept Christianity. Christianity spread east to Asia and throughout the Roman Empire, despite [[Persecution of Christians|persecution]] by the Roman Emperors until its [[Edict of Milan|legalization]] by [[Constantine I (emperor)|Emperor Constantine]] in 313. During his reign, questions of orthodoxy lead to the convocation of the first Ecumenical Council, that of [[First Council of Nicaea|Nicaea]].

In 391 [[Theodosius I]] established [[Nicene]] Christianity as the official and, except for [[Judaism]], only legal religion in the [[Roman Empire]]. Later, as the [[political structure]] of the empire collapsed in the West, the Church assumed political and cultural roles previously held by the Roman aristocracy. Eremitic and Coenobitic [[monasticism]] developed, originating with the hermit [[Anthony the Great|St Anthony of Egypt]] around 300. With the avowed purpose of fleeing the world and its evils ''in contemptu mundi'', the institution of monasticism would become a central part of the medieval world.<ref>Jo Ann H. Moran Cruze and Richard Gerberding, ''Medieval Worlds'' pp. 118-119</ref>[[Image:Good shepherd 02b close.jpg|thumb|left|160px|Christ Jesus,<ref>"The figure (...) is an allegory of Christ as the shepherd" Andre Grabard, "Christian iconography, a study of its origins," {{ISBN|0691018308}}</ref> the [[The Good Shepherd (Christianity)|Good Shepherd]], 3rd century.]]

Christianity became the established church of the [[Axumite]] Kingdom (presently encompassing [[Eritrea]] and Northern [[Ethiopia]]) under king [[Ezana]] in the 4th century through the efforts of a Syrian Greek named [[Frumentius]], known in Eritrea and Ethiopia as Abba Selama, Kesaté Birhan ("Father of Peace, Revealer of Light"), thus making Eritrea and Ethiopia one of the first Christian states even before most of Europe. As a youth, Frumentius had been shipwrecked with his brother Aedesius on the Eritrean coast. The brothers managed to be brought to the [[noble court|royal court]], where they rose to positions of influence and converted Emperor Ezana to Christianity, causing him to be baptised. Ezana sent Frumentius to Alexandria to ask the Patriarch, [[Athanasius of Alexandria|St. Athanasius]], to appoint a bishop for the [[Kingdom of Aksum]]. Athanasius appointed Frumentius himself, who returned to Aksum as Bishop with the name of Abune Selama.

[[Image:Ezana6.jpg|thumb|The first coins to display the Christian cross were those of the [[Axumite]] leader [[Ezana]] circa 350 AD.]]

During the [[Migration Period]] of [[Late Antiquity]], various [[Germanic peoples]] adopted Christianity. Meanwhile, as western political unity dissolved, the linguistic divide of the Empire between Latin-speaking West and the Greek-speaking East intensified. By the [[Middle Ages]] distinct forms of Latin and Greek Christianity increasingly separated until [[Cultural identity|cultural differences]] and disciplinary disputes finally resulted in the [[East-West Schism|Great Schism]] (conventionally dated to 1054), which formally divided [[Christendom]] into the Catholic west and the Orthodox east. [[Western Christianity]] in the [[Middle Ages]] was characterized by cooperation and conflict between the [[Secularism|secular]] rulers and the Church under the [[Pope]], and by the development of [[Scholasticism|scholastic theology and philosophy]].

Beginning in the 7th century, [[Muslim]] rulers began a long series of military conquests of Christian areas, and it quickly conquered areas of the [[Byzantine Empire]] in [[Asia Minor]], Palestine, Syria, Egypt, and [[North Africa]], and even captured southern [[Spain]]. Numerous military struggles followed, including the [[Crusades]], the Spanish [[Reconquista]], the [[Fall of Constantinople]] and the aggression of the [[Ottoman Empire|Turks]].

===The Era of Reformation===

[[Image:Lucas Cranach (I) workshop - Martin Luther (Uffizi).jpg|right|thumb|125px|Martin Luther]]

In the early [[16th century|sixteenth century]], increasing discontent with corruption and immorality among the clergy resulted in attempts to reform the Church and society. The [[Protestant Reformation]] began after [[Martin Luther]] published his [[95 theses]] in 1517, whilst the [[Roman Catholic Church]] experienced internal renewal with the [[Counter-Reformation]] and the [[Council of Trent]] (1545-1563). During the following centuries, competition between Catholicism and Protestantism became deeply entangled with political struggles among European states. Meanwhile, partly from missionary zeal, but also under the impetus of [[Colonialism|colonial expansion]] by the European powers, Christianity spread to the Americas, Oceania, [[East Asia]], and [[sub-Saharan Africa]].

==== Reformation Era Divisions ====

[[Image:Nicaea icon.jpg|right|thumb|An icon depicting the [[First Council of Nicaea]]]]

There is a diversity of [[doctrine]]s and practices among groups calling themselves Christian. These groups are sometimes classified under [[Christian denomination|denomination]]s, though for theological reasons many groups reject this classification system.<ref>S. E. Ahlstrom characterized [[denominationalism]] in America as “a virtual ecclesiology” that “first of all repudiates the insistences of the Roman Catholic church, the churches of the 'magisterial' Reformation, and of most sects that they alone are the true Church." Ahlstrom p. 381. For specific citations, on the Roman Catholic Church see the ''Catechism of the Catholic Church'' §816; other examples: Donald Nash, [http://www.crownhillchurch.com/Why_the_Churches_of_Christ_Are_Not_A_Denomination.pdf#search=%22church%20of%20christ%20not%20a%20denomination%22 Why the Churches of Christ are not a Denomination]; Wendell Winkler, [http://www.thebible.net/introchurch/ch4.html Christ's Church is not a Denomination]; and David E. Pratt, [http://www.biblestudylessons.com/cgi-bin/gospel_way/denominations.php What does God think about many Christian denominations?]

</ref> Christianity may be broadly represented as being [[Schism (religion)|divided]] into three main groupings:<ref>Encyclopedia Britannica, [http://www.britannica.com/ebc/article-9360716 Christianity]</ref>

* [[Roman Catholic Church|Roman Catholicism]]: The [[Roman Catholic Church]], or "Catholic Church," includes the 23 [[Particular Church|particular churches]] in communion with the [[Bishop of Rome]]. It is the largest single body, with more than 1 billion baptized members.<ref name="Adherents">Adherents.com, [http://www.adherents.com/Religions_By_Adherents.html ''Religions by Adherents'']</ref>
* [[Eastern Orthodox Church|Eastern Orthodoxy]]: Those churches in communion with the [[Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople]] and the other Patriarchal Sees of the East.  A 1992 agreement amongst American theologians resolved theological differences between Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Christians -- although this has yet to be universally recognized. Together with the "Church of the East", these can be considered a single large grouping.
* [[Protestantism]]: Virtually every church body outside Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism are considered to be Protestant. In the 16th century, [[Martin Luther]], [[Ulrich Zwingli]], and [[John Calvin]] inaugurated what has come to be called the Protestant Reformation. Luther's primary theological heirs are known as [[Lutheranism|Lutherans]] (Also known as Evangelicals in Germany and elsewhere). Zwingli and Calvin's heirs are far broader denominationally, and are broadly referred to as the [[Reformed|Reformed Tradition]]. Most Protestant traditions branch out from the Reformed tradition in some way. In addition to the Lutheran and Reformed branches of the Reformation, there is also the [[Anabaptist]] tradition, which was largely ostracized by the other Protestant parties at the time, but have achieved a measure of affirmation in more recent history. [[Restorationism]] may be considered to be another Protestant branch should one consider them to be properly called Christians.

===Christianity in the Modern era===
In the Modern Era, Christianity was confronted with various forms of [[skepticism]] and with certain modern [[Ideology|political ideologies]] such as [[liberalism]], [[nationalism]], and [[socialism]]. This included the [[anti-clericalism]] of the French Revolution, the Spanish Civil War, and general hostility of Marxist movements, especially [[Russian Revolution (1917)|the Russian Revolution]].

====Present Day Divisions====
The oldest Protestant and Reformed groups separated from the Roman Catholic Church in the 16th century [[Protestant Reformation]], followed in many cases by further divisions. Estimates of the total number of Protestants and Reformed are very uncertain, partly because of the difficulty in determining which denominations should be placed in these categories, but it seems to be unquestionable that Orthodox Christianity is the second major group of Christians (after Roman Catholicism) in number of followers.<ref name="Adherents" />

Some Reformed Christians identify themselves simply as ''Christian,'' or ''born-again Christian''; they typically distance themselves from the [[confessionalism (religion)|confessionalism]] of Protestant communities<ref>Confessionalism is a term employed by historians to describe "the creation of fixed identities and systems of beliefs for separate churches which had previously been more fluid in their [[self-understanding]], and which had not begun by seeking separate identities for themselves — they had wanted to be truly Catholic and reformed." [[MacCulloch]], ''Reformation'' p. xxiv</ref> by calling themselves "[[Non-denominational Christianity|non-denominational]]" — often founded by individual pastors, they have little affiliation with historic denominations. Furthermore, many members of the [[Anglican Communion|the Anglican Communion]], a group of Anglican and Episcopal Churches that are descended from the [[Church of England]], claim to be both Protestant and ''[[Catholicism|Catholic]]''. Finally, various small communities, such as the [[Old Catholic Church|Old Catholic]] and [[Independent Catholic Churches]], are similar in name to the Roman Catholic Church, but are not in [[Communion (Christian)|communion]] with the [[Holy See|See of Rome]] (the [[Old Catholic Church|Old Catholic]] church is in communion with the [[Anglican Communion|See of Canterbury]]).  The term "Roman Catholic" was created to distinguish the Roman Catholics from other groups.<ref>{{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Catholic|Catholic]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}</ref><ref>{{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Roman Catholic|Roman Catholic]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}</ref>

[[Restorationism|Restorationists]] are historically connected to Early 19th century Camp Meetings in the Midwest and Upstate New York.  American [[Millennialism]] and [[Adventist|Adventism]], which arose from Evangelical Protestantism, produced certain groups such as the Jehovah's Witness movement (p.&nbsp;807), and, as a reaction specifically to [[William Miller]], Seventh Day Adventists (p.&nbsp;381).  These groups usually describe themselves as ''restoring'' the Church that they believe was lost at some point and not as "reforming" a [[Christian Church]] continuously existing from the time of Jesus. Restorationists include [[Churches of Christ]] with 2.6 million members, [[Disciples of Christ]] with 800,000 members,<ref>''Statistical Report: Annual Council of the General Conference Committee Silver Spring, Marlyand, October 6—11, 2006''</ref> and [[Jehovah’s Witnesses]] with 6.6 million members,<ref>JW-Media.org [http://www.jw-media.org/people/statistics.htm#Jehovah%Witness%Membership%2005 Membership 2005]</ref> and [[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]], the largest denomination of the [[Latter Day Saint movement]] with over 12 million members. Though Restorationists have some superficial similarities, their doctrine and practices vary significantly.

[[Image:ChristianityBranches.svg|600px|thumb|center|A simplified chart of historical developments of major groups within Christianity. The different width of the lines (thickest for "Protestantism" and thinnest for "Oriental Orthodox" and "Nestorians") is without objective significance.]]

==== Mainstream Christianity ====

[[Mainstream]] Christianity is a widely used term, used to refer to collectively to the common views of major denominations of Christianity (such as [[Roman Catholicism]], [[Protestantism]], [[Anglicanism]], [[Orthodox Christianity]]) as against the particular tenets of other sects or [[Christian denomination]]. The context is dependent on the particular issues addressed, but usually contrasts the [[orthodox]] majority view against [[heterodox]] minority views. In the most common sense, "mainstream" refers to [[Nicene Christianity]], or rather the traditions which continue to claim adherence to the [[Nicene Creed]].<ref>"[[The Nicene Creed]] is the profession of the Christian Faith common to the Catholic Church, to all the Eastern Churches, and to most of the Protestant denominations." {{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/The Nicene Creed|The Nicene Creed]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}</ref><ref>"Christian statement of faith that is the only ecumenical creed because it is accepted as authoritative by the Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and major Protestant churches."
''Nicene Creed'' Encyclopædia Britannica. 2007. Encyclopædia Britannica Online.[http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9055702]</ref>

==== Ecumenism ====
{{Main article|Ecumenism}}

[[Image:Christianity percentage by country.png|thumb|right|600px|Christianity percentage by country]]

Most churches have long expressed ideals of being reconciled with each other, and in the 20th century Christian [[ecumenism]] advanced in two ways. One way was greater cooperation between groups, such as the [[Edinburgh Missionary Conference]] of Protestants in 1910, the Justice, Peace and Creation Commission of the [[World Council of Churches]] founded in 1948 by Protestant and Orthodox churches, and similar national councils like the [[National Council of Churches in Australia]] which also includes Roman Catholics.

The other way was institutional union with new [[United and uniting churches]]. [[Congregational church|Congregationalist]], [[Methodist]], and [[Presbyterian]] churches united in 1925 to form the [[United Church of Canada]] and in 1977 to form the [[Uniting Church in Australia]]. The [[Church of South India]] was formed in 1947 by the union of [[Anglicanism|Anglican]], [[Methodism|Methodist]], [[Congregational church|Congregationalist]], [[Presbyterianism|Presbyterian]], and [[Reformed Church|Reformed]] churches.

Steps towards reconciliation on a global level have also been taken in 1965 by the Catholic and Orthodox churches mutually revoking the excommunications that marked their [[East-West Schism|Great Schism]] in 1054; the [[Anglican Roman Catholic International Commission]] (ARCIC) working towards full communion between those churches since 1970; and the [[Lutheran World Federation|Lutheran]] and [[Roman Catholic Church|Catholic]] churches signing The [[Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification]] in 1999 to address conflicts at the root of the [[Protestant Reformation]]. In 2006 the [[World Methodist Council|Methodist church]] also adopted the declaration.<ref>[http://www.lutheranworld.org/What_We_Do/OEA/Methodist-Statement-2006-EN.pdf Methodist Statement]</ref>

====Modern membership trends====

With an estimated number of adherents that ranges between 1.5 billion <ref name="Adherents.com Christians">[http://www.adherents.com/Na/Na_173.html Adherents.com - Number of Christians in the world]</ref> and 2.1 billion,<ref name="Adherents.com Christians"/> Christianity is one of the [[major religious groups|world's largest religions]]. It is the predominant religion in [[Europe]], the [[Americas]], [[Southern Africa]], and the [[Philippines]].<ref>See [[Christianity by country]] for a detailed list.</ref><ref>[http://www.britannica.com/eb/table?tocId=9394911 Encyclopedia Britannica] table of religions,  by region; retrieved November 2007</ref>

However it is declining in some areas including [[Oceania]] ([[Australia]] and [[New Zealand]]), [[Great Britain]],<ref>[http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/news/uk/061223/christendom New UK opinion poll shows continuing collapse of 'Christendom']</ref> [[France]], [[Germany]], and the [[Middle East]],<ref>David Barrett, Tom Kurian et al, eds., ''World Christian Encyclopedia'' 2nd edition (Oxford University Press, 2001), pages 139 (Britain), 281 (France), 299 (Germany).</ref><ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4499668.stm BBC NEWS - Guide: Christians in the Middle East]</ref><ref>[http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/world/4425100.html Is Christianity dying in the birthplace of Jesus?]</ref> and in [[Asia]] it remains a minority religion.

== See also ==
{{Col-begin}}

{{Col-1-of-3}}

* [[Antinomianism]]
* [[Christian apologetics]]
* [[Christian anarchism]]
* [[Christian calendar]]
* [[Christian communism]]
* [[Christian emigration]]
* [[Christian eschatology]]
* [[Christian existentialism]]
* [[Christian Flag]]
* [[Christian Identity]]
* [[Christian meditation]]
* [[Christian mysticism]]
* [[Christian mythology]]
* [[Christian naturism]]
* [[Christian symbolism]]
* [[The stories of Christianity|Christian stories]]
* [[Criticism of Christianity]]
* [[Criticism of the Bible]]

{{Col-2-of-3}}

* [[Christian views about women]]
* [[Christianity and antisemitism]]
* [[Christianity and Freemasonry]]
* [[Christianity and other religions]]
* [[Christianity by country]]
* [[Christianity in Africa]]
* [[Christianity in China]]
* [[Church]]
* [[Conservative Christianity]]
* [[Emerging Church]]
* [[Green Christianity]]
* [[Historicity of Jesus]]
* [[Homosexuality and Christianity]]
* [[John 3:16]]
* [[Christian Universalism]]
* [[Post-congregational narrative]]

{{Col-3-of-3}}

* [[Christianity and Judaism]]
* [[Buddhism and Christianity]]
* [[Christianity among the Mongols]]
* [[Liberal Christianity]]
* [[List of converts to Christianity]]
* [[List of Christian Missionaries]]
* [[List of religions]]
* [[Matthew 10:34]]
* [[New Testament view on Jesus' life]]
* [[Progressive Christianity]]
* [[Religious ministry (Christian)|Religious ministries]]
* [[Sabbath in Christianity|Sabbath]]
* [[Theonomy]]
* [[Criticism of religion]]

{{Col-end}}

=== History and denominations ===
{{Portal|Anglicanism}}

{{Col-begin}}

{{Col-1-of-2}}

* [[Christian theology]]
* [[Wikipedia:Wikiportal/Eastern Christianity|Eastern Christianity portal]]
* [[East-West Schism|Great Schism]]
* [[Protestant Reformation]]
* [[English Reformation]]

{{Col-2-of-2}}

* [[Restorationism]]
* [[List of Christian denominations]]
* [[Social Gospel]]
* [[Third Church]]

{{Col-end}}

== Notes ==

{{Reflist|3}}

== Bibliography ==

==== Primary sources ====

<div class="references-small">* The [[Bible]]: [http://www.biblegateway.com/ BibleGateway.com] -- [http://www.vatican.va/archive/bible/index.htm Sacred Scripture] -- [http://www.bible.org/netbible/index.htm New English Translation]</div>

{{Col-begin}}

{{Col-1-of-2}}

<div class="references-small">'''A'''

* "''Once More, Once More: Derrida, the Jew, the Arab''" by Gil Anidjar, introduction to: {{cite book |last=Derrida |first=Jacques |authorlink=Jacques Derrida |editor=Gil Anidjar |title=Acts of Religion |url=http://www.arsdisputandi.org/index.html?http://www.arsdisputandi.org/publish/articles/000080/index.html |year=2001 |publisher=Routledge |location=New York & London |isbn=0-415-92400-6/0-415-92401-4 |pages=436}}
* {{cite web|last=Arnold III|first=William|title=Is Jesus God the Father?|url=http://www.apostolic.net/biblicalstudies/father.htm|accessdate=2006-09-07}}
* {{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Athanasian Creed|Athanasian Creed]]" in the 1913 ''Catholic Encyclopedia''}}
* {{cite web | last = Aquinas | first = Thomas | authorlink = Thomas Aquinas | title = Summa Theologica | url = http://www.newadvent.org/summa/ | accessdate = 2006-10-06}}

'''B'''

* {{cite web |url=http://www.sbc.net/bfm/bfm2000.asp#ii |title=Baptist Faith and Message |publisher=Southern Baptist Convention |accessdate=2006-10-25}}
* {{cite web |last=Boettner |first=Loraine | authorlink = Loraine Boettner |title=One Substance, Three Persons |url=http://www.caledonianfire.org/caledonianfire/Boettner/trinity/t5.htm |accessdate=2006-05-29}}
* {{cite book |last=Bullinger |first=Heinrich |authorlink= Heinrich Bullinger |coauthors=and others |title = Second Helvetic Confession |year=1564 |location= Basel, Switzerland |url =http://www.ccel.org/creeds/helvetic.htm |accessdate=2006-10-21 }}

'''C'''

* {{cite book | last = Calvin | first = John | authorlink = John Calvin | title = Commentary on the Catholic Epistles | orig-date=1551 | url = http://www.ccel.org/c/calvin/comment3/comm_vol45/htm/vii.iv.iv.htm | accessdate = 2006-10-07}}
* {{cite book |last=Calvin |first=John |url=http://www.reformed.org/books/institutes/books/book3/bk3ch25.html |title=Institutes of the Christian Religion |accessdate=2006-09-10}}
* {{cite book | title = Catechism of the Catholic Church | publisher = United States Catholic Conference — Libreria Editrice Vaticana | year = 1994, 1997 | location = Città del Vaticano and Washington D.C. | url = http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/ | id = English: hardcover No. 5-109, softcover No. 5-110 |accessdate=2006-10-21 |others=promulgated by Pope John Paul II}}
* {{cite book |url=http://www.carm.org/creeds/chalcedonian.htm |title=Chalcedonian Creed |publisher=Christian Apologetics & Research Ministry |orig-date=451 |accessdate=2006-10-25}}
* {{cite web | title = Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy |year=1978 | url = http://www.spurgeon.org/~phil/creeds/chicago.htm | accessdate = 2006-08-26 }}

'''D'''

* {{cite web| title = Dei Verbum | year=1962 | url = http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19651118_dei-verbum_en.html | accessdate = 2006-10-26 |publisher=Second Vatican Council}}

'''G'''

* {{cite book |title=Geneva Confession |url=http://www.studylight.org/his/ad/cac/con/geneva.html |accessdate=2006-10-20 |year=1537}}

'''H'''

* {{cite web | last =Hinckley | first = Gordon | authorlink = Gordon B. Hinckley |title=First Presidency Message: The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost | work =Ensign | date=  March 1998|url=http://library.lds.org/nxt/gateway.dll/Magazines/Ensign/1998.htm/ensign%20march%201998.htm/first%20presidency%20message%20the%20father%20son%20and%20holy%20ghost.htm?fn=document-frame.htm&f=templates&2.0| accessdate =2006-09-08}}
* {{cite web |last=Hendryx |first=John |title=The Work of the Trinity in Monergism |url=http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/monergism_short.html |accessdate=2006-05-29}}

'''I'''

* {{cite book |last=Ignatius of Antioch |authorlink= Ignatius of Antioch |title=Letter to the Magnesians |url=http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-magnesians-roberts.html |accessdate=2006-10-22 }}
* {{cite book |last=Ignatius of Antioch |authorlink= Ignatius of Antioch |title=Letter to the Romans |url=http://www.ccel.org/fathers2/ANF-01/anf01-19.htm#P1838_311890 |others=Roberts-Donaldson English translation |accessdate=2006-10-22}}</div>

{{Col-2-of-2}}

<div class="references-small">'''J'''

* {{cite book |last=Josephus |first=Flavius |title=Antiquities |authorlink=Josephus}}
* {{cite book |last=Justin Martyr |orig-date=150 |title=First Apology |others=trans. Roberts-Donaldson |url=http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-firstapology.html |accessdate=2006-08-01}}

'''L'''

* {{cite book |url=http://www.dailycatholic.org/history/4ecumen2.htm |title=Letter to Flavian, patriarch of Constantinople |publisher=dailycatholic.org |accessdate=2006-10-25 |last=Leo the Great |authorlink=Pope Leo I}}
* {{cite book |last=Luther |first=Martin |title=Small Catechism}}

'''M'''

* {{cite web | title = Moshiach: The Messiah | url = http://www.jewfaq.org/moshiach.htm

|accessdate = 2006-08-26 |publisher=JewFaq.org |year=1998–2001}}
'''N'''

* {{cite web |last=Nash |first=Donald |url=http://www.crownhillchurch.com/Why_the_Churches_of_Christ_Are_Not_A_Denomination.pdf#search=%22church%20of%20christ%20not%20a%20denomination%22 |format=pdf |title=Why the Churches of Christ are not a Denomination |accessdate=2006-10-22 }}
* {{cite book |title=Nicene Creed |others=Greek and English translation |accessdate=2006-10-07 |url=http://www.bergen.edu/faculty/gcronk/creeds3.html |orig-date=325 and 381}}

'''P'''

* {{cite web |last=Pratte |first=David E. |url=http://www.biblestudylessons.com/cgi-bin/gospel_way/denominations.php |year=1986 |accessdate=2006-10-22 |title=What Does God Think About Many Christian Denominations? }}

'''S'''

* ''Religion, Religions, Religious'', essay by [[Jonathan Z. Smith]], published in book: {{cite book |editor=[[Mark C. Taylor]] |title=Critical Terms for Religious Studies |year=1998 |url=http://www.press.uchicago.edu/Misc/Chicago/791572.html |publisher=University of Chicago Press |isbn=978-0226791562 |chapter=fifteen |pages=430}}
* {{cite web |last=Spurgeon |first=Charles |authorlink= Charles Spurgeon |title=A defense of Calvinism |url=http://www.spurgeon.org/calvinis.htm |accessdate=2006-05-29}}

'''T'''

* {{cite book | title = Thirty Nine Articles of the Church of England | orig-date= 1563 }}
* {{cite book |last=Tacitus |title=[[Annals (Tacitus)|Annales]] |authorlink=Tacitus}}

'''U'''

* {{cite web | title =Unitarian Views of Jesus | url =http://www.uua.org/re/reach/fall01/curriculum/unitarian_views_of_jesus.html | accessdate =2006-09-08}}

'''W'''

* {{cite book |title=Westminster Confession |orig-date=1643 |publisher=The Committee for Christian Education & Publications |url=http://www.pcanet.org/general/cof_contents.htm |accessdate=2006-10-23}}
* {{cite web | title =What Does the Bible Say About God and Jesus? | work =Should You Believe in the Trinity? | publisher =Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania | date= 1989 | url =http://www.watchtower.org/library/ti/article_05.htm|accessdate = 2006-09-07}}
* {{cite web |last=Winkler |first=Wendell |url=http://www.thebible.net/introchurch/ch4.html |title=Christ's Church is not a Denomination |year=1981 |publisher=Star Bible Publications |location=Fort Worth, Texas |accessdate=2006-10-22}}</div>

{{Col-end}}

==== Secondary sources ====
{{Col-begin}}

{{Col-1-of-2}}
<div class="references-small">'''A'''

* {{cite book |last=Ahlstrom |first=Sydney E. |title=A Religious History of the American People |publisher=Yale University Press |location=New Haven and London |year=1972 }}
* {{cite book |title=From the Stone Age to Christianity: Monotheism and the Historical Process |edition=2nd |last=Albright |first=William F. |year=1957}}
* {{cite book |first=T. Desmond |last=Alexander |coauthors=Brian S. Rosner, D. A. Carson, Graeme Goldsworthy |title=New Dictionary of Biblical Theology |publisher=InterVarsity Press |year=2000}}
* {{cite encyclopedia |url=http://www.bookrags.com/Arianism |title=Arianism |encyclopedia=Encyclopedia of Religion |year=2001–2006 |publisher=Macmillan Reference USA |accessdate=2006-05-05}}

'''B'''

* {{cite book |last=Bauer |first=Walter |authorlink=Walter Bauer |title=Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature |edition=2ed. |year=1979 }}
* {{cite book | last=Bokenkotter |first=Thomas | title=A Concise History of the Catholic Church | location=New York | publisher=Doubleday | year=2004 }}
* {{cite book | last = Bruce | first = F.F. | title = The Canon of Scripture | publisher = InterVarsity Press | date=  1988 | location = Downers Grove, Ill. | isbn = 083081258X}}
* {{cite book|last = Budge|first = E. A. Wallis|authorlink = E. A. Wallis Budge|year = 1900|title = Egyptian Religion|publisher = Kessinger}}

'''C'''

* {{cite book |last=Cannistraro |first=Philip V. |coauthors=John J. Reich | title=The Western Perspective: A History of Civilization in the West - Volume A To 1500 | location=New York | publisher=Harcourt Brace College Publishers | year=1999 }}
* {{ws|"[[s:Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)|Catholic Encyclopedia]]"}}
* {{cite book |last=Chadwick |first=Henry |title=East and West: the Making of a Rift in the Church |publisher=Oxford University Press |year=2003 }}
* {{cite book | last = Chambers | first = Mortimer | coauthors = Crew, Herlihy, Rabb, Woloch | title = The Western Experience Volume II: The Early Modern Period | edition = 1st | year = 1974 | publisher = Alfred A. Knopf | isbn = 0-394-31734-3}}
* {{cite encyclopedia |encyclopedia=Encyclopedia Britannica |title=Christianity |url=http://www.britannica.com/ebc/article-9360716 |accessdate=2006-07-01}}
* {{cite book |last=Clark |first=Kelly James |url=http://www.calvin.edu/academic/philosophy/virtual_library/articles/clark_kelly_j/trinity_or_tritheism.pdf |title=Virtual Library of Christian Philosophy |chapter=Trinity or Tritheism |publisher=Philosophy Department, Calvin College |accessdate=2006-05-18}}
* {{cite book |last = Cohen|first = Mark|authorlink = Mark Cohen|year = 1995 |title = Under Crescent and Cross: The Jews in the Middle Ages. |publisher = Princeton University Press |isbn = 0-691-01082-X }}
* {{cite book |last=Cruz |first=Jo Ann H. Moran |coauthors=Richard Gerberding |title=Medieval Worlds: An Introduction to European History 300-1492 |publisher=Houghton Mifflin Company |year=2004 }}

'''D'''

* {{cite book |publisher=Princeton University |chapter-url=http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=christianity |title=Dictionary.com |chapter=Christianity |accessdate=2006-05-18}}

'''E'''

* {{cite book |last=Ellegard |first=Alvar |year=1999 |title=Jesus One Hundred Years Before Christ}}
* {{cite book |title=Easton's Bible Dictionary |year=1897 |url=http://www.sacred-texts.com/bib/ebd/ebd082.htm |chapter=Christian |accessdate=2006-10-25}}

'''F'''

* {{cite book |last=Ferguson|first=Niall|title=Colossus: The Rise and Fall of the American Empire |publisher=Penguin Books| year=2005 |isbn=0-14-101700-7}}
* {{cite book |last=Fuller|first=Reginald H.|title=[[Reginald H. Fuller#The Foundations of New Testament Christology (1965)|The Foundations of New Testament Christology]] |publisher=Scribners| year=1965 |isbn=0-00-641874-0}}

'''G'''

* {{cite book | title=The Story of Christianity |last=Gonzalez |first=Justo L. | year=1984, 1985, 1999 |publisher=Prince Press | isbn=1-56563-522-1}}

'''H'''

* {{cite book |title=Resurrection: The Capstone in the Arch of Christianity |first=Hank |last=Hanegraaff |publisher=Word Publishing }}
* {{cite web |last=Henry |first=Matthew |url=http://eword.gospelcom.net/comments/matthew/mh/matthew1.htm |title=Commentary on Matthew 1}}
* {{cite book |url=http://www.bartleby.com/59/5/monotheism.html |title=The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy |edition=Third |last=Hirsch, Jr. |first=Joseph F. |coauthors=James Trefil Kett |publisher=Houghton Mifflin Company |year=2002 }}

'''J'''

* {{cite book |last=Johnson |first=Paul |authorlink=Paul Johnson (writer) |title=A History of Christianity | location=New York | publisher=Touchstone | year=1979|isbn= 0-684-81503-6}}

'''K'''

* {{cite book|last=Kelly|first=J.N.D.|title=Early Christian Doctrines|publisher=Prince Press|date=1960, reprint Aug 2004|location=Peabody, Massachusetts|isbn=1-56563-911-1}}
* {{cite book |title=God Against the Gods: The History of the War Between Monotheism and Polytheism |first=Jonathan |last=Kirsch |year=2004}}</div>

{{Col-2-of-2}}
<div class="references-small">'''L'''

* {{cite encyclopedia |last=Latourette |first=Kenneth Scott |encyclopedia=Collier's Encyclopedia |title=Christianity |volume=vol. 6 |location=New York |publisher=Macmillan Educational Company |year=1990}}
* {{cite book|last =Letham|first =Robert|title =The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship|publisher =P&R Publishing|date= 2004|location =Phillipsburg, New Jersey|isbn=0-87552-000-6}}
* {{cite book |last = Lewis |first = Bernard |authorlink = Bernard Lewis |year = 1987 |title = The Jews of Islam |publisher = Princeton University Press |isbn = 0-691-00807-8 }}
* {{cite book | title=Mere Christianity |last=Lewis |first=C.S | authorlink = C. S. Lewis | isbn=0-06-065292-6}}

'''M'''

* {{cite book |last=MacCulloch |first=Diarmaid |title=[[The Reformation: A History]] |publisher=Penguin Group |location=New York |year=2003 |isbn=0-670-03296-4}}
* {{cite book |last=Mack |first=Burton |year=2001 |title=The Christian Myth: Origins, Logic, and Legacy. Social formation of myth making}}
* {{cite book |last=Marshall |first=Paul |title=Their Blood Cries Out |coauthors=Lela Gilbert |publisher=W Publishing Group}}
* {{cite book |first=Alister E.|last=McGrath |title=Historical Theology |publisher=Blackwell |year=2000 }}
* {{cite journal |last=Meconi |first=David Vincent |title=Pagan Monotheism in Late Antiquity (review) |journal=Journal of Early Christian Studies |volume= 8 |year=2000 |issue=Spring, number 1}}
* {{cite book | title=Christian Theology: An Introduction |last=McGrath |first=Alister |date=16 February 2001 |publisher=Wiley | isbn=0-631-22528-5}}
* {{cite book | title=Christian Theology Reader |last=McGrath |first=Alister |date=15 February 2001 |publisher=Wiley | isbn=0-631-20637-X}}
* {{cite encyclopedia |url=http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/society/A0833762.html |encyclopedia=Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia |title=Monotheism |edition=6th |year=2006 |publisher=Columbia University Press }}
* {{cite book |last=Munro |first=Greg |url=http://dlibrary.acu.edu.au/research/theology/ejournal/aejt_2/Greg_Munro.htm |accessdate=2006-10-21 |publisher=Australian E-Journal of Theology |title=A Book Review of "A World History of Christianity" (ed. Adrian Hastings) |year=2004}}

'''N'''

* {{cite book |title=Rome and the Eastern Churches: a Study in Schism |location=Edinburgh |year=1992 |last=Nichols |first=A.}}
* {{cite book |title=Radical Monotheism and Western Culture |last=Niebuhr |first=H. Richard |year=1960 }}

'''O'''

* {{cite encyclopedia |last=Oden |first=Thomas |encyclopedia=Systematic Theology: an ecumenical trilogy |volume=(1) |title=The Living God |year=1992 |isbn=0-06-066363-4}}
* {{cite encyclopedia |last=Oden |first=Thomas |encyclopedia=Systematic Theology: an ecumenical trilogy |volume=(2) |title=The Word of Life |year=1992 |isbn=0-06-066364-2}}
* {{cite encyclopedia |last=Oden |first=Thomas |encyclopedia=Systematic Theology: an ecumenical trilogy |volume=(3) |title=Life in the Spirit |year=1994 |isbn=0-06-066362-6}}

'''P'''

* {{cite book |last=Pelikan |first=Jaroslav | authorlink = Jaroslav Pelikan |year=1971–1989 |title=The Christian Tradition: A History of the Development of Doctrine }}
* {{cite book |first=E. |last=Peterson |chapter=Christianus |title=Miscellanea Giovanni Mercati I, Studi e testi |location=Vatican City |year=1946}}

'''R'''

* {{cite book |last=Robertson |first=Archibald |authorlink=Archibald Robertson |url=http://ditext.com/robertson/christianity.html |title=The Origins of Christianity |accessdate=2006-10-20 |year=1954, 1962 }}

'''S'''

* {{cite book | last = Sproul | first = R.C. | authorlink = R. C. Sproul | title = Knowing Scripture | publisher = InterVarsity Press | date=  1977 | location = Downers Grove, Ill. | pages = 45–61 | isbn = 0877847339}}

'''T'''

* {{cite book |last=Tomkins |first=Stephen |year=2005 |title=A Short History of Christianity |location=Lion}}

'''V'''

* {{cite book |editor=Vermes, Geza and Martin D. Goodman (ed.) |title=The Essenes according to the Classical Sources |location=Sheffield |publisher=Oxford Centre for Postgraduate Hebrew Studies and JSOT Press |year=1989}}

'''W'''

* {{cite book |last=Wenham |first=David |title=Paul: Follower of Jesus or Founder of Christianity? }}
* {{cite book |title=An Introduction to Christianity |first=Linda |last=Woodhead |year=2004 }}

'''Y'''

* {{cite book |title=The Decline of Eastern Christianity Under Islam: From Jihad to Dhimmitude: Seventh-Twentieth Century |last=Ye'Or |first=Bat |publisher=Fairleigh Dickinson University Press}}

'''Z'''

* {{cite book |title=The Oxford Dictionary of the Jewish Religion |editor=R. J. Zwi Werblowsky and G. Wigoder (eds.) |location=New York |year=1997 |isbn=0-19-508605-8}}</div>

{{Col-end}}

==== Popular media ====
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-1-of-2}}
<div class="references-small">'''B'''

* {{cite web | last = Bahnsen | first = Greg | authorlink = Greg Bahnsen | title = A Reformed Confession Regarding Hermeneutics | url = http://www.cmfnow.com/articles/pt173.htm | accessdate = 2006-10-06}}

'''C'''

* {{cite web |url=http://www.christianmonitor.org |title=christianmonitor.org |accessdate=2006-10-25}}
* {{cite web |url=http://catholic-resources.org/Art/Koch-ChristianSymbols.htm |publisher=CatholicResources.org |title=Christian Symbols |accessdate=2006-10-25}}
* {{cite web |title=Christianity |url=http://www.world-faiths.com/Christianity/christianity.htm |publisher=world-faiths.net |accessdate=2006-10-22 }}
* {{cite web |url=http://christianity.about.com |title=Christianity - General and How to Live the Christian Faith |publisher=About.com, The New York Times Company }}
* {{cite web |title=Christian Today Library |url=http://ctlibrary.com |publisher=ChristianityToday.com |accessdate=2006-10-26}}
* {{cite web |url=http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=24886 |title=Christians persecuted in Islamic nations |accessdate=2006-10-25 |publisher=Worldnetdaily.com}}

'''D'''

* {{cite web |title=New Government Statistics on China's Christians |publisher=WorthyNews.com |last=Davenport |first=Paul |url=http://www.worthynews.com/news-features/compass-china-survey.html |accessdate=2006-10-22}}

'''E'''

* {{cite web |url=http://news.amnesty.org/index/ENGAFR640172005 |publisher=amnesty.org |title= Eritrea: Government must end religious persecution |accessdate=2006-10-25}}

'''F'''

* {{cite web |url=http://chi.gospelcom.net/DAILYF/2003/10/daily-10-08-2003.shtml |title=First Meeting of the Council of Chalcedon |publisher=Christian History Institute |year=1999–2006 |accessdate=2006-10-25}}
* {{cite journal | last = Foutz | first = Scott David | title = Martin Luther and Scripture | journal = Quodlibet Online Journal | publisher = Society of Online Christian Theology and Philosophy | url = http://www.quodlibet.net/luther.shtml | accessdate = 2006-10-06}}

'''E'''

* {{cite web | title = Ethiopian Orthodox Old Testament | work = The Bible: The Book That Bridges the Millennia | url = http://gbgm-umc.org/umw/bible/ethold.stm | accessdate = 2006-10-09}}

'''G'''

* {{cite web | last = Glenny | first = W. Edward | title = Typology: A Summary Of The Present Evangelical Discussion | date=  March 1997 | url = http://www.biblicalstudies.org.uk/article_typology_glenny.html | accessdate = 2006-10-10}}
* {{cite web|title=Gnostics, Gnostic Gospels, & Gnosticism|url=http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/gnostics.html| accessdate=2006-05-30}}
* {{cite web |title=Growth of Christianity in South Korea |publisher=LutherProductions.com |url=http://demo.lutherproductions.com/historytutor/basic/modern/stories/christ-korea.htm |accessdate=2006-10-22 }}

'''J'''

* {{cite web |title=Jehovah's Witnesses Membership Statistics |url=http://www.jw-media.org/people/statistics.htm#Jehovah%Witness%Membership%2005 |accessdate=2006-10-22}}</div>

{{Col-2-of-2}}
<div class="references-small">'''K'''

* {{cite web |url=http://www.kimsoft.com/1997/xhist.htm |publisher=Xhist.com |title=History of Christianity in Korea |first=Andrew E. |last=Kim |accessdate=2006-10-22}}
* {{cite web |url=http://www.aim.org/media_monitor/4610_0_2_0_C/ |publisher=aim.org |accessdate=2006-10-25 |title=Christians Under Siege in Kosovo |last=Kincaid |first=Cliff |year=2006}}

'''O'''

* {{cite web |url=http://www.britishorthodox.org/113e.php |title=Oriental Orthodox Rejection of Chalcedon |publisher=British Orthodox Church |accessdate=2006-10-25 |year=2006}}

'''R'''

* {{cite web |url=http://www.adherents.com/Religions_By_Adherents.html |publisher=Adherents.com |title=Religions by Adherents |accessdate=2006-05-18}}
* {{cite web |title=ReligionFacts.com |url=http://www.religionfacts.com |accessdate=2006-10-25 |publisher=Religion Facts }}

'''S'''

* {{cite web |title=Sassanids, to 500 |publisher=Macro History |url=http://www.fsmitha.com/h1/ch22c.htm |accessdate=2006-10-26}}
* {{cite web | title =Socinianism: Unitarianism in 16th-17th century Poland and Its Influence | url =http://www.sullivan-county.com/nf0/nov_2000/unitarian1.htm | accessdate = 2006-09-07}}
* {{cite web |title=Statistical Report: Annual Council of the General Conference Committee Silver Spring, Marlyand, October 6—11, 2006 |url=http://www.adventistarchives.org/docs/Stats/ACRep2006.pdf |year=2006 |accessdate=2006-11-16 }}

'''T'''

* {{cite web |url=http://dailywisdom.gospelcom.net/dw_static/dw-level2.html |publisher=Gospelcom.net |title=The Most Important Event in History |accessdate=2006-10-23 }}
* {{cite web | publisher= The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | title = The Scriptures, Internet Edition | url = http://scriptures.lds.org | accessdate = 2006-10-06}}

'''W'''

* {{cite web |url=http://www.cuf.org/faithfacts/details_view.asp?ffID=191 |title=We Believe in One God...: The Nicene Creed at Mass |publisher=Catholics United for the Faith |year=2004 |accessdate=2006-10-25}}
* {{cite web | last = White | first = James | authorlink = James White (theologian) | coauthors = Gerry Matatics | title = Does The Bible Teach Sola Scriptura? | date=  November 1992 | url = http://www.aomin.org/SolaTop.html | accessdate = 2006-10-09}}
* {{cite book |url=http://www.ntwrightpage.com/Wright_NDCT_Paul.htm |title=New Dictionary of Theology |last=Wright |first=David F. |coauthors=Sinclair B. Ferguson, J.I. Packer }}</div>

{{Col-end}}

== Further reading ==

* [http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/religion/ From Jesus to Christ] Perspectives on Jesus and early Christianity from various academics.
* [http://www.bethinking.org bethinking.org Christianity] Treating Christianity as a whole worldview or perspective and looking at the relationship between historic Christianity and contemporary thought. (Website from the [[Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship]].)
* {{cite web | url = http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/index.shtml | title = Christianity | work = Religion & Ethics | publisher = BBC | accessdate = 2006-04-12}}

==External links==
{{Sisterlinks}}

* [http://www.biblegateway.com Bible Gateway] The Bible online (multilingual)
* [http://www.ccel.org/ Christian Classics Ethereal Library] A collection of Christian writings from all periods of history
* [http://www.spurgeon.org/~phil/hall.htm Hall of Church History] Resources on Christian history
* [http://www.religionfacts.com/christianity/index.htm ReligionFacts.com: Christianity] Fast facts, glossary, timeline, history, beliefs, texts, holidays, symbols, people, etc.

{{Christianityfooter}}
{{Religion topics}}

[[:Category:Christianity|*]]
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