Lecture: Introduction to World Religions and Belief Systems - Christianity
Instructor
- Sir Greg, Humanities and Social Sciences Teacher
Overview
- The lecture covers the history, core teachings, beliefs, practices, and issues of Christianity.
- Christianity is the most popular religion globally and has a significant presence in the Philippines due to Spanish colonization.
History of Christianity
- Originated in Palestine around 100 CE.
- Developed from Judaism during the Roman Empire era in West Asia.
- Centers on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- Jesus is considered the Messiah or savior of humanity.
Core Beliefs
- Trinity: God is three aspects - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- Affirmed at the Council of Nicaea in 25 CE.
- Atonement: Jesus died on the cross to save humanity from sins.
- Monotheistic: Belief in one God, creator, and sustainer of the universe.
Sacred Texts
- Bible: Comprised of Old Testament and New Testament.
- Old Testament: 39 books, includes Torah, Prophets, and Writings.
- New Testament: 27 books, includes Gospels, Letters, Acts of the Apostles, and Revelation.
Major Christian Sects
- Roman Catholicism: Focus on the Eucharist and mass.
- Greek Orthodox Church: Eastern Orthodox tradition.
- Protestantism: Originated in the 16th-century Reformation.
Symbols
- Cross: Represents Christ’s victory over sins.
- Fish Symbol: Used by early Christians for secret identification.
Christian Hierarchy
- Pope: Head of the Catholic Church, resides in Vatican City.
- Cardinals: Appointed by the Pope, advise and elect a new Pope.
- Bishops: Teachers, sacred worship leaders, church ministerial overseers.
Sacraments
- Seven sacraments: Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Communion, Confession, Marriage, Holy Orders, Anointing of the Sick.
Beatitudes and Creeds
- Beatitudes: Eight sayings of Jesus at the Sermon on the Mount.
- Apostles' Creed: Developed in 100-200 CE, summarizes basic teachings.
Religious Observances
- Advent, Lent, Easter, Pentecost: Important periods in the Christian calendar.
Ecumenism
- Effort to promote unity among Christian sects and with non-Christians.
- Based on principles of church unity established through apostolic succession.
Contemporary Issues
- Sexuality: Conservative views of Catholic Church on contraception, abortion, homosexuality.
Key Points
- Christianity is centered on Jesus Christ as the Savior.
- Belief in the Trinity is fundamental.
- Emphasis on redemption through Jesus' sacrifice.
Conclusion
- The lesson covered Christianity's history, beliefs, and practices.
- Encouragement to complete self-learning module tasks.
Checkpoint Activity
- Core teaching of Christianity: C (God sent his begotten son to be the redeemer of humankind)
- Main figure of Christianity: B (Jesus Christ)
- Known as the Sermon on the Mount: D (The Beatitudes)
- Beginning of Christianity: D (Life, teachings, and miracles of Jesus of Nazareth)
- Not part of the Holy Trinity: D (Messiah)
Notes: Keep safe and review the material as needed.