Overview and Origin

Christianity is a monotheistic religion (belief in one God)

Begins in 1st century CE and founded by Jesus Christ of Nazareth

Christians believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the promised deliverer from God

Christianity is based on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus

Origins of Christianity

Jesus taught using parables- short stories with a message

Jesus had 12 main disciples or close followers who helped spread his teachings

Jesus was crucified, died, and buried. Three days later, he rose from the dead, went to his followers, and then ascended to heaven

Spread of Christianity

After, the Apostle (important early Christian teacher) Paul will be a major figure in spreading the Christian message.

He traveled and taught the Gospel (or good news of Jesus) to far away lands.

Paul spent several years visiting cities throughout the Roman Empire, starting new churches and writing letters to various churches and individuals

Teachings of Christianity

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul"

"You shall love your neighbor as yourself"

Jesus taught that in order to be saved and have eternal life with God, people need to put their trust in Jesus, follow his teachings, and worship God.

Christians believe that Jesus was crucified, dead, and resurrected; that he is the son of God sent to redeem or save people from their sin.