Lesson 5: Christianity

Flashcards covering key concepts from the Christianity notes, including history, beliefs, branches, practices, sacraments, and distinctive teachings.

What is Christianity, and from what tradition did it develop in the 1st century CE?

It developed out of Judaism in the 1st century CE, centered on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ; followers are called Christians.

Name the three major branches of Christianity.

Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Protestantism.

What is the traditional Christian understanding of God in terms of the Trinity?

One true God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

What is the primary sacred text of Christianity?

The Bible (Old Testament and New Testament).

List some fundamental practices in Christianity.

Church worship, fellowship and study, evangelism, and social action.

What is a key demographic and authority feature of Roman Catholicism?

Approximately 1.1 billion members globally; authority traced to the apostles; bishops form a universal church; the pope is Peter's successor.

Which city is associated with Peter’s tomb and papal primacy?

St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican; the pope is Peter’s successor.

What was the outcome of the Council of Nicea (325 A.D.)?

A universal creedal statement (the Nicene Creed) was established.

What did the First Council of Constantinople (381 A.D.) accomplish?

Ratified the Nicene Creed.

What claim did Pope Leo I make regarding church authority (440–461 A.D.)?

First to claim universal Church authority.

What issue did the Council of Chalcedon (451 A.D.) address?

Division with Oriental Orthodox churches.

What is the Great Schism, and when did it occur?

Formal division between East and West in 1054 A.D.

What was the Council of Trent (1545–1563) about?

Centralizing Catholic authority during the Reformation.

What are the four ancient Patriarchates of the Eastern Orthodox Church?

Alexandria, Antioch, Constantinople (first among equals), Jerusalem.

Which tradition accepts the first seven Ecumenical Councils (325–787 CE)?

Eastern Orthodox Church.

How is Orthodox worship described?

Liturgical and iconographic, with icons of Jesus, Mary, saints, etc.

When and why did Protestantism originate, and who led it?

Originated in the 16th-century Reformation; led by Martin Luther, John Calvin, and others.

What are the core beliefs and practices commonly associated with Protestantism?

Trinity, divinity of Jesus, salvation through Jesus’ death and resurrection; emphasis on Scripture and faith; diverse practices (liturgical and non-liturgical).

What is the Apostles’ Creed, and who accepts it?

A doctrinal statement used for liturgy and catechesis; accepted by Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, Orthodox, Presbyterians, Methodists, Congregationalists.

What is central to Christian belief about Jesus and his resurrection?

Jesus is the Son of God and the Messiah; his death and resurrection bring salvation and eternal life; he is fully divine and human; life includes baptism, miracles, preaching, and deeds; the Resurrection is the cornerstone (1 Corinthians 15).

What are modern debates about the Resurrection?

Some view it as literal; others view it as symbolic or mythical.

How do different traditions view atonement and salvation (give at least three perspectives)?

Eastern Orthodoxy: atonement restores relation and aims for theosis (divinization); Catholicism: Jesus’ death satisfies God’s wrath; salvation requires faith, works, and baptism; Protestantism: salvation by grace alone; baptism not always necessary; Reformed: predestination and irresistible grace; Catholics/Orthodox/Arminians: free will is essential.

What are the general Christian practices listed?

Baptism, Eucharist (Communion), Prayer, Confession, Confirmation, Marriage rites, Religious education, Ordained clergy, Group worship services; Sunday worship with scripture readings, sermon, prayers; some follow liturgical calendar/lectionary; Sunday school.

What is a sacrament, and how many are recognized in high church traditions?

A rite instituted by Christ that conveys spiritual grace; Seven Sacraments are recognized by Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Anglicans, and some Lutherans.

Which denominations recognize only Baptism and Eucharist, and which groups reject sacraments?

Other denominations recognize only Baptism and Eucharist; some groups (e.g., Quakers) reject sacraments.

What term do Baptists use for sacraments, and what does it signify?

Baptists use the term ordinances instead of sacraments, implying observances rather than conveying grace.

What are the two unique sacraments of the Church of the East?

Holy Leaven (Melka) and Sign of the Cross.

What is the concept of theosis in Eastern Orthodoxy?

The process of divinization or becoming like God through salvation.