When Did Christianity Start?

Christianity began in the 1st century AD in Judea, a province of the Roman Empire. It was founded on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe to be the Son of God and the promised Messiah. His message of love, salvation, and eternal life quickly spread, leading to the formation of the first Christian communities.

Despite early opposition from Jewish religious authorities and the Roman Empire, Christianity continued to grow. Persecution, rather than stopping the movement, strengthened believers' faith, leading to a widespread following. By the 4th century AD, Christianity became the dominant religion in the Roman world, shaping history and culture for centuries to come.

When and Where Did Christianity Start?

Christianity started in Judea (modern-day Israel and Palestine) around 30-33 AD. This was during the time of Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who ordered Jesus’ crucifixion. Jesus’ public ministry, which lasted about three years, was centered around Galilee and Jerusalem, where He preached about God's kingdom, performed miracles, and gathered disciples.

His teachings emphasized love, forgiveness, and faith in God, challenging the rigid religious laws of the time. Many people, including the poor, the sick, and outcasts, were drawn to His message. However, His growing influence also led to opposition from Jewish leaders and the Roman authorities, ultimately resulting in His crucifixion.

After His resurrection, His followers—particularly the Apostles Peter and Paul—spread Christianity beyond Judea. They traveled across the Roman Empire, Greece, Turkey, and even as far as Rome, establishing Christian communities. This rapid expansion laid the foundation for what would become one of the world's largest religions.

When Did the Christianity Religion Start?

The Christian religion formally began after Jesus’ resurrection (c. 30-33 AD). His disciples, empowered by the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, began preaching the gospel to people from various nations (Acts 2). This event marked the birth of the early Church, with thousands of new believers joining the faith.

 Initially, Christianity was seen as a sect of Judaism, but as it spread among Gentiles, it developed into a distinct religion. Over time, Christian communities were established throughout the Roman world, and despite periods of persecution, the faith continued to grow.

When Did Christianity Start in Africa?

Christianity arrived in Africa in the 1st century AD, with early Christian communities forming in Egypt and Ethiopia. The Gospel of Mark is traditionally believed to have brought Christianity to Alexandria, Egypt, around 42 AD.

By 330 AD, Ethiopia became one of the first nations to adopt Christianity as its official religion under King Ezana. North Africa also played a major role in Christian history, producing influential theologians like St. Augustine. Despite later Islamic expansion, Ethiopia remained a stronghold of Christianity, preserving many ancient traditions.

When Did Evangelical Christianity Start?

Evangelical Christianity emerged in the 18th century during religious revivals in Britain and America. The movement emphasized personal faith, Bible authority, and missionary work. The Great Awakenings (1730s–1800s) played a crucial role in spreading evangelical beliefs, leading to the formation of many Protestant denominations. 

Evangelicals focused on spreading the gospel, leading to modern missionary efforts and large-scale Christian outreach. Today, evangelical Christianity continues to grow rapidly worldwide, especially in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

The Role of the Apostle Paul in Spreading Christianity

Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was a former persecutor of Christians who experienced a dramatic conversion and became one of Christianity’s greatest missionaries. He traveled across the Mediterranean world, spreading the gospel to both Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews).

His letters, known as Epistles, were written to early Christian churches and addressed theological issues, moral teachings, and encouragement for believers facing persecution. These writings later became part of the New Testament, shaping Christian beliefs for generations to come.

Paul’s emphasis on faith in Christ rather than strict adherence to Jewish laws helped Christianity break away from Judaism and become a global movement. His missionary work was instrumental in making Christianity a faith that extended beyond its Jewish roots.

When Did Christians Start Celebrating Easter?

Easter has been celebrated since the 1st century AD, immediately following Jesus’ resurrection. It was closely linked to the Jewish Passover, as Jesus was crucified and resurrected during that time. 

Early Christian communities observed Easter on different dates, leading to a formal decision at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which set Easter’s date based on the lunar calendar. Today, Easter remains the most significant Christian holiday, marking Jesus' victory over sin and death.

The Role of Women in Early Christianity

One of the most remarkable aspects of early Christianity was the role of women. Unlike many religions and cultures of the time, Christianity gave women a greater sense of equality and importance. Women such as Mary Magdalene, Priscilla, and Lydia played significant roles in spreading the faith and supporting Christian communities.

In fact, many of the early house churches were led by women, providing safe places for believers to gather and worship. Christianity’s teachings on love and equality were particularly appealing to women, as it emphasized their worth beyond their societal roles.

How Christianity Became Rome’s Official Religion

A major turning point for Christianity came in 312 AD when Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity after reportedly seeing a vision of a cross before a battle. In 313 AD, he issued the Edict of Milan, which granted religious freedom to Christians and ended years of persecution.

Later, in 380 AD, Emperor Theodosius I made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. This marked the transformation of Christianity from a persecuted faith to a dominant world religion.

When Did Christianity Start in Ethiopia?

Christianity began in Ethiopia in the 4th century AD and became the nation’s official religion under King Ezana. The Syrian missionary Frumentius helped introduce Christianity to the Ethiopian kingdom, and the Ethiopian Orthodox Church remains one of the oldest Christian churches in the world. 

Unlike many African regions influenced by European missionaries, Ethiopia developed its unique Christian traditions independently. The country has preserved ancient Christian texts and practices, making it a significant center of early Christianity.

Christianity’s Impact on World History

Christianity didn’t just shape religious beliefs—it transformed entire civilizations. The principles of Christian ethics influenced laws, human rights, and even modern democracy. Concepts like charity, forgiveness, and the value of human life became deeply rooted in many cultures.

Throughout history, Christianity played a major role in education, leading to the establishment of universities, hospitals, and charitable organizations. Many of the world’s most renowned institutions, including Harvard University, Oxford University, and Yale University, were originally founded as Christian schools.

Additionally, Christian missionaries helped spread literacy and education across continents. They introduced written languages to many indigenous cultures, allowing them to preserve their history and traditions.

Conclusion

Christianity started in the 1st century AD in Judea and rapidly expanded through the apostles’ preaching, missionary work, and Roman influence. Over time, it spread across Europe, Africa, and Asia, shaping world history and culture. Despite challenges and persecution, Christianity grew to become the world’s largest religion, with over 2 billion followers today.