Christian (follower of Christianity)

Core beliefs and characteristics

While beliefs differ across traditions, most Christians share a set of central convictions. Typical emphases include:

• God: belief in one God who is the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in many traditions.
• Jesus: Jesus Christ as savior and model for human life — his teaching, sacrificial death and resurrection are central (the life and teachings of Jesus).
• Scripture and authority: the Bible functions as a primary source for faith and practice, interpreted differently across churches.
• Salvation and ethics: concepts of forgiveness, moral transformation, prayer and communal worship shape Christian identity.

History and development

Christianity began in the first century CE within Jewish contexts in the eastern Mediterranean and spread through missionary activity, urban networks and later imperial structures. Over centuries it developed diverse theological traditions, liturgical forms and institutional arrangements. Key historical moments include the councils of the early church, the Great Schism between Eastern and Western Christianity, and the Protestant Reformation, each contributing to the variety of Christian expression that exists today.

Major branches and diversity

Christians are organized into multiple families of churches. The largest historic groups are Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy and Protestantism, but the global Christian landscape also includes Oriental Orthodox churches, Anglican and independent churches, Pentecostal and evangelical movements, and newer restorationist and charismatic communities. These groups differ in governance, sacramental theology, liturgy and biblical interpretation.

Practices and social role

Common Christian practices include communal worship, reading scripture, prayer, baptism and, in many traditions, communion or the Eucharist. Observances such as Christmas and Easter mark central events in the Christian calendar. Beyond ritual, Christian communities have historically been active in education, healthcare, charity and the arts; they continue to influence laws, social services and cultural norms in many societies.

Global presence and distinctions

Christianity is one of the world’s largest religions, with adherents numbering in the billions and widespread geographic distribution. Internal diversity means the term "Christian" covers a broad range of theological positions and cultural practices. For any specific question about doctrine, worship style or community life it is useful to consult the particular tradition or congregation involved.