Below you will find some information about ‘What does it mean to be a Christian?’ But what can be better than just reading for yourself is to have an open and honest conversation about these big topics of life. Have you thought about trying Alpha?
If you're curious about life and faith, you're not alone! In fact, over 750,000 people in Australia have already tried Alpha, a space designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment to explore questions about God and faith. At Alpha, you can ask anything – no question is off-limits. And you'll have the chance to hear from others who are also on their own faith journey.
We all have big questions, and Alpha is a great place to ask them. So why not find an Alpha near you and join the conversation? You can learn more about Alpha and how to get involved at alpha.org.au/try. Wherever you have come from, whatever your background or beliefs, Alpha is a place for everyone.
What is Christianity?
At its core, Christianity is a religion that is centered around the life and teachings of Jesus. According to Christian belief, Jesus was the Son of God and the long-awaited Jewish Messiah. He proved this claim through his life, death, and resurrection, which were witnessed by hundreds of people.
"..it's important to remember that being a Christian is more than just going to church."
For Christians, following the life and teachings of Jesus involves more than just believing in certain principles or doctrine. It means living in a way that is guided by Jesus' values, which include showing love, mercy, and grace to others, even to those who are different from us or don't necessarily like us. In short, being a Christian means following the example set by Jesus and striving to live a life that reflects his teachings.
What is unique about Christianity?
What makes Christianity unique among the world's religions? Here are four thoughts from a Christian perspective:
Christianity teaches that God is a triune being, comprising the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This belief sets Christianity apart from many other religions, which have a more singular concept of divinity.
In Christianity, salvation is not based on our own merit or efforts. We can't earn our way into God's favour through good deeds, church attendance, or obedience to a set of rules. Instead, Christianity teaches that we are saved through faith in Jesus, who died for our sins and rose again.
Christianity is the only religion in which God comes to us rather than the other way around. We don't have to spend our lives trying to reach God; instead, God came down to earth in the form of Jesus to meet with us.
Jesus is a central figure in Christianity and is believed to be fully human and fully God. He claimed to be the way to God and the representation of God the Father. His death and resurrection are seen as crucial to the Christian faith. If Jesus had not come to earth and been resurrected, there would be no Christianity.
These are just a few of the ways in which Christianity is unique among the world's religions. Whether you're a believer or just curious about this faith, there is much to learn and explore about what makes Christianity so special.
How many Christians are there in the world?
According to research, as of 2022, there are approximately 2.8 billion Christians on the planet. Even in Australia, where the most recent census showed that 44% of people identified as Christians, it's important to remember that being a Christian is more than just going to church. Just like going to McDonald's doesn't make someone a cheeseburger, attending church doesn't automatically make someone a Christian. It's about a personal relationship with Jesus and living according to his teachings.
Despite its humble beginnings, Christianity has grown and flourished over the centuries, and it continues to thrive and evolve today. If you're interested in learning more about this global faith, there are many resources available to help you explore and understand its rich history and teachings, like Alpha.