Even those who identify as Christians might not be able to accurately describe the foundations of the faith. Learn more about Christianity and how to explain Jesus’ sacrificial work on the cross with others.
Fast Facts
Population: 2.3 billion (28.8% of the global population)
Growth Rate: The population is expected to increase by 34% by 2060.
Year Founded: A.D. 30*
Founder: Jesus
Holy Texts: Holy Bible
Major Branches: Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox
View of Jesus: God and Savior
*Though this is around the time of Jesus’s crucifixion and resurrection, some may argue that Christianity was in the mind of God before the creation of the world (Ephesians 1:4, 2 Timothy 1:9).
Where They Live
As the largest major world religion, Christianity can be found on every continent. High populations of Christians live in North America, South America, Europe, Sub Saharan Africa, and Australia. The United States has the largest Christian population in the world (217 million), followed by Brazil and Mexico.
Major Beliefs
Christianity is the largest religion in the world. The core beliefs of Christians are all found in the Bible:
In the beginning, God created the world, and He created mankind in His image (Genesis 1). Mankind had an unhindered relationship with God until Adam and Eve chose to sin (Genesis 3). Sin caused a separation between God and mankind (Romans 3:23, Isaiah 59:2), and the consequence of sin is death—eternal separation from God (Romans 5:12, 6:23). People cannot be saved by good deeds (Ephesians 2:8-9, Titus 3:5, Galatians 2:16). Therefore, Jesus, the Son of God, died on the cross to pay the punishment for sin (Romans 5:8; 1 Peter 2:24, 3:18). Jesus remained in the grave for three days and then rose from the dead (Matthew 28, John 20). In doing so, Jesus provided the way back to God and forgiveness of sins for all who believe and follow Him (John 3:16, 5:24, 14:6; Romans 10:9-10).
Professing Christians vary in their beliefs about the purpose of various biblical practices, such as Communion (the Eucharist) and baptism, with some believing these acts are necessary for salvation. But the Bible makes it clear that salvation is a gift from God, by grace through faith alone.
Conversation Bridges
Many professing Christians are true, born-again believers. But there are also many cultural Christians—those who say they are Christians because they grew up in a Christian household— and people who accept Jesus’ sacrifice but still believe they must earn salvation.
If you have a new Christian friend who you suspect does not fully understand the gospel, you could ask clarifying questions, such as, “How would you explain the gospel to a nonbeliever?” or “If someone asked you how to get to Heaven, what would you say?” You can then share how you would answer those questions.
You could also ask if your friend would be interested in doing a Bible study with you. The Holy Spirit can illuminate the truth of the gospel as you explore God’s Word together. Remember to share the truth in love, and avoid coming across as condemning to a potential brother or sister in Christ.
Read this story of how God changed one woman’s life.
As you engage with other Christians, pray that God reminds them of the gospel every day so they can share it with others.
A Field Guide to Major World Religions
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are not ashamed of the gospel and its power. Yet we sometimes still find ourselves unsure of how to share our faith as we go about daily lives, especially with people of different religions and worldviews. This guide includes a summary of beliefs from the major world religions, stories of lives changed by Jesus, prayers, and tips for sharing the gospel to help you engage missionally with people from various faith backgrounds. Download your free copy today!
