Canonical/New Testament Images of Jesus:
Biography: Born in Bethlehem, crucified in Jerusalem.
Ministry: Preached love, forgiveness, and the coming of God's kingdom.
Apocryphal/Non-Canonical Images (Especially Gnostic) of God and Jesus:
Gnostic texts depict Jesus as a figure with esoteric knowledge, often differing from canonical views.
The Pentecost:
Event after Jesus’ resurrection where the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles, empowering them to spread Christianity.
Early Councils and Creeds:
Council of Nicaea (325 CE): Established the doctrine of the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit).
Nicene Creed: Statement of Christian faith.
Major Teachings and Practices:
Love thy neighbor, forgiveness, salvation through Jesus, belief in the resurrection, and the Trinity.
Major Historical Figures:
Paul: Apostle who spread Christianity beyond Jewish communities.
Constantine: Roman emperor who legalized Christianity.
Martin Luther: Leader of the Protestant Reformation.
Kimpa Vita: African Christian prophetess who founded a Christian movement in Congo.
Major Sacraments:
Baptism: Initiation into Christianity.
Eucharist: Commemoration of Jesus' Last Supper.
Varieties of Christianity:
Pentecostalism: Emphasizes the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues.
AICs (African Independent Churches): Blend of Christianity with African traditions.
Protestantism: Various branches like Lutheranism, Methodism, Anglicanism, and others.
Roman Catholicism: Led by the Pope, emphasizes sacraments and tradition.
Orthodox Christianity: Focus on early Christian teachings and rituals
Other Christian Denominations: Include groups such as Baptists, Pentecostals, and Evangelicals, each with unique doctrines and practices.