Introduction to Christianity (OCR GCSE Religious Studies): Revision Notes

1.1.1 Introduction to Christianity

Basic Context of Christianity

• Origins: Christianity began in the 1st century CE in the Roman province of Judea.
• Founder: Jesus Christ, considered the central figure and believed to be the Son of God and saviour of humanity.
• Sacred Text: The Bible, comprising the Old Testament (shared with Judaism) and the New Testament, which includes the Gospels detailing Jesus's life and teachings.

A Cross

Core Beliefs:

Major Denominations

Roman Catholicism

• Leadership: The Pope, based in the Vatican.
• Sacraments: Seven sacraments, including Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
• Authority: Guided by Church tradition and teachings alongside the Bible.
• Worship: The Mass is central, including the Eucharist.

Eastern Orthodoxy

• Leadership: Patriarchs and autocephalous (self-governing) churches. The Oecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople is "first among equals."
• Sacraments: Also observe seven sacraments.
• Authority: Emphasis on Holy Tradition and early Church Fathers' teachings.
• Worship: The Divine Liturgy, with a strong emphasis on ritual and tradition.

Protestantism

• Origins: Emerged from the Reformation in the 16th century, led by Martin Luther and John Calvin.
• Denominations: Includes Lutheranism, Calvinism (Reformed), Anglicanism, Methodism, and Baptists.
• Sacraments: Generally two sacraments - Baptism and Eucharist (Lord's Supper).
• Authority: "Sola scriptura" (scripture alone) is central.
• Worship: Varies widely but often includes hymn singing, Bible readings, and sermons.

Anglicanism

• Leadership: The Archbishop of Canterbury is the symbolic head, but each national church is autonomous.
• Beliefs: Combines elements of Catholicism and Protestantism.
• Sacraments: Recognises seven sacraments but emphasises Baptism and the Eucharist.
• Authority: Balances scripture, tradition, and reason.
• Worship: The Book of Common Prayer is often used, including a liturgical format similar to Catholic Mass.

Methodism

• Origins: Began in the 18th century with John Wesley.
• Beliefs: Focuses on personal faith and social justice.
• Sacraments: Recognises Baptism and the Eucharist.
• Authority: Scripture is primary, with an emphasis on personal experience and practical divinity.
• Worship: Services often include enthusiastic singing and preaching, with a strong community focus.

Baptists

• Beliefs: Emphasise believer's baptism (by full immersion) and the autonomy of the local church.
• Sacraments: Recognises Baptism and the Eucharist.
• Authority: Sole authority of scripture.
• Worship: Simple and focused on preaching and congregational participation.

Common Christian Practices

• Prayer: Central to Christian life, including personal and communal prayer.
• Worship Services: Vary by denomination but generally include hymns, scripture readings, sermons, and sacraments.
• Festivals:
  • Christmas: Celebrates the birth of Jesus.
  • Easter: Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.
  • Other: Includes festivals like Pentecost, which commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles.