Watch The History of Christianity. Lecture 18 of 30. Popular Christian Beliefs & Practices.
- NR
- 2013
- 1 hr 20 min
The History of Christianity is a lecture series, of which Lecture 18 is titled Popular Christian Beliefs & Practices. The series stars Dr. William J. Neidinger, a renowned professor of religious studies, who offers a comprehensive overview of the development and evolution of Christianity; from its foundational origins in the Middle East to its growth and globalization across the world.
In this particular lecture, Dr. Neidinger dives into the beliefs and practices that have become mainstream within the Christian tradition. He begins by exploring the importance of scripture and its role in shaping Christian beliefs. From the creation story in Genesis to the prophetic visions of John in Revelation, Dr. Neidinger illustrates how the Bible has been used to underpin Christian doctrine.
The lecture then explores the nature of God, tracing the evolution of Christian thinking about the nature of God from early Jewish roots to the development of the doctrine of the Trinity. Dr. Neidinger highlights the tension inherent in the idea of a triune God and explores the historical and philosophical debates surrounding the doctrine.
Moving on to the practices of the Christian faith, Dr. Neidinger examines the sacraments of baptism and communion, which are central to many Christian communities. He explains the symbolism and significance of these rituals and their role in connecting believers to God and to each other.
Dr. Neidinger then examines some of the other popular beliefs and practices within Christianity, including the use of icons and religious artwork, prayer, and the observance of holy days and festivals. He highlights the diversity of Christian practice across different cultures and explores some of the challenges and opportunities that arise from this diversity.
Throughout the lecture, Dr. Neidinger offers historical context and philosophical insights that deepen our understanding of Christianity as a complex and evolving religious tradition. His engaging style and depth of knowledge make this lecture an informative and inspiring resource for anyone interested in the history and development of Christianity.
The History of Christianity. Lecture 18 of 30. Popular Christian Beliefs & Practices. is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes.