Introduction to Christianity

The Umbrella of Christianity Catholicism Protestantism

Origins of Christianity Christianity is the faith that recognizes Jesus of Nazareth as the Christ The word Christ means: the anointed

What emphasis do they put on Jesus? Jesus is accepted as their Savior and Lord The term Lord, Savior, Anointed, etc refers to the Jewish prophesy of the “Messiah” http://www.jesus-is-savior.com/Bible/fulfilled_prophecy.htm Christians view the crucifixion as the sacrifice needed for forgiveness of sin

What do they affirm? “ God so loved the world, that He gave His only son, so that everyone who believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

They believe that anyone who accepts Jesus as Lord, recognizes they are a sinner and tries to live according to the Bible They are a Christian

Some Beliefs Christians believe that in the one God there are three co-equal persons: God the Father God the Son God the Holy Spirit

Why are practioners called Christians? The term Christian implies that followers are to be Christ- like They are to pattern their lives after that of Christ

Where was he born and to whom? Jesus was born in Bethlehem. He was born to a virgin named Mary Joseph was his earthy father. Christians believe Jesus to be the son of God.

He traveled for most of his ministry He would travel teaching parables What did Jesus Do? He was a carpenter He traveled for most of his ministry He would travel teaching parables

Jesus lived for about 33 years How long did Jesus live? Jesus lived for about 33 years His ministry was for the final few years of his life

Many Christians practice Baptism

This was originally submersion in water This was originally submersion in water. Later it would be done be sprinkling also.

There are many different ways it is practiced. baptism continued… There are many different ways it is practiced.

What baptism represents is also different to different people Usually it represents the dying of a sinful self, and being “born again” in Christ

Communion Communion is a sacrament of the Christian church like baptism Before Jesus was crucified, he met with his 12 disciples (followers who carried on his ministry after died and ascended into heaven) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8KVGMsP2w8

This was known as the Last Supper Bread and wine were used to represent what would happen to him at the crucifixion Christians all over the world practice this still

The crucifixion Jesus was crucified His hands and feet were nailed to a cross This is the reason the cross is an important symbol for Christians

After 3 days, Christians believe Jesus was resurrected The Resurrection After 3 days, Christians believe Jesus was resurrected