The Early Church And Salvation Through Faith

By Scott Hayes


When it comes to belief in God, Jesus, a higher power, spiritual practice or no such belief, the United States constitution allows citizens the right to religious freedom. While this is the case, the predominant religion in the country is that of Christianity. In most cases, Christians believe in Salvation through Faith.

Based on the bible verse Ephesians 2:8-10, most believe that individuals are saved though faith. While this is the case, the core of the Christian faith has changed over the years to fit a number of different churches, denominations and sects. As such, different churches and denominations often have different practices and beliefs related to salvation, such as good works, public prayer and baptism.

Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox were the earliest forms of Christianity which were spread throughout Europe in the early days of the church. Later, the religion spread to the United States and beyond. Recent statistics now show that there are over two billion people whom now identify as Christians.

While some focus on the church as the beginning aspects of the religion, others refer to the story of Saul, or the apostle known as Paul. For, Saul is best known for having seen a vision of Jesus after the resurrection in which Jesus told Saul to spread the gospel to the world. After which, Saul whom was Jewish, converted to Christianity and begin a trek telling the good news of Jesus Christ and salvation of the world.

Currently, there are basically two aspects of the Christian church. First, is the apostolic church led by the disciples of the time. Whereas, the second episcopal structure was developed during the post-apostolic period. During this time, there were intense persecutions of individuals converting to Christianity. Then, in approximately 324 AD, Constantine found tolerance with the church and the persecutions ceased over time.

In the Apostolic church, the church was led by the apostles, generally relatives of Jesus Christ. While this is the case, upon resurrection Jesus commanded that the teachings be spread throughout the world. Denounced by some critics, the Acts of the Apostles as described in the Bible book of Acts is believed to be the most accurate history related to the time.

The book of Acts covers a lot of detail when it comes to the topic of salvation. In addition, it explains the command Jesus gave to spread the gospel and the message of salvation to the Eastern Mediterranean and the Gentiles. As a result, it is often considered one of the best accounts as to the life of the apostles and Christ during that time.

In most cases, the earliest Christians were ethically Jewish or Jewish mystics and proselytes. When considering this truth, it becomes clear that Jesus first preached to Jewish people whom became the first disciples. Whereas, as stated in the book of Matthew, the intention was for the teachings of Jesus and salvation to be spread to all nations throughout the land.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment

 

Holidays Copyright © 2011-2012 | Powered by Blogger