Churches of Christ: An Independent Christian Tradition

Origins and Beliefs

Churches of Christ are independent Christian denominations that trace their roots back to the Restoration Movement of the 19th century. They believe that the Bible is the sole authority for faith and practice, and that the church should be organized according to the New Testament model.

Constantine's Impact

The conversion of Constantine the Great to Christianity in the 4th century had a profound impact on the development of the Church. Constantine's patronage led to the construction of churches and the establishment of Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire.

The legalization of Christianity also led to changes in the church's structure and organization. Constantine convened the Council of Nicaea in 325 to resolve theological disputes and establish a creed that would be binding on all Christians. This marked the beginning of the development of the centralized, hierarchical church that would later dominate Christian history.

Contemporary Influence

Today, Churches of Christ continue to be an important force in Christianity. They are known for their strong emphasis on Bible study, their commitment to evangelism, and their distinctive practices, such as congregational singing and the weekly observance of the Lord's Supper.