Christianity is the world's largest religion, based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes faith in one God, the message of love and salvation, and the belief that Jesus is the Son of God and the Messiah.

Core Beliefs

1. Monotheism – Christians believe in one God, who exists as the Trinity: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
2. Jesus Christ – Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God, the Messiah, and that he died for humanity’s sins and was resurrected.
3. The Bible – The Christian holy book, divided into the Old Testament (shared with Judaism) and the New Testament, which contains the teachings of Jesus and early Christian writings.
4. Salvation – Christians believe salvation comes through faith in Jesus, who offers forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
5. The Second Coming – Many Christians believe Jesus will return to establish God's kingdom on Earth.

Key Christian Teachings

• Love and Compassion – “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31).
• The Golden Rule – “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31).
• Forgiveness and Grace – God offers mercy and forgiveness through Jesus.
• Faith and Works – Some denominations emphasize faith alone (Protestants), while others believe in faith combined with good deeds (Catholics and Orthodox).

Major Branches

• Catholicism – The largest Christian group, led by the Pope; emphasizes sacraments, tradition, and church authority.
• Orthodox Christianity – Includes Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches, preserving early Christian traditions.
• Protestantism – A movement that broke from Catholicism, emphasizing the Bible as the sole authority and salvation by faith alone. Includes Lutherans, Baptists, Methodists, and many others.

Christian Practices

• Prayer – Speaking to God, either formally (e.g., the Lord’s Prayer) or personally.
• Worship Services – Typically held on Sundays in churches, featuring prayers, hymns, and sermons.
• Baptism – A ritual of initiation into Christianity, symbolizing purification and new life.
• Communion (Eucharist) – A sacred meal of bread and wine (or juice), representing Jesus' body and blood.
• Christian Holidays
  • Christmas – Celebrates the birth of Jesus.
  • Easter – Commemorates Jesus’ resurrection.
  • Good Friday – Remembers Jesus' crucifixion.
  • Pentecost – Celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Common Symbols

• Cross – Represents Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
• Ichthys (Fish Symbol) – An early Christian symbol for Jesus.
• Dove – Represents the Holy Spirit and peace.

Common Misconceptions

• Not all Christians believe the same things – There are many theological differences among denominations.
• Christianity is not just a Western religion – It originated in the Middle East and has followers worldwide.
• Christians do not worship Mary or saints – Catholics and Orthodox Christians venerate them but do not consider them divine.