Christianity started in the 1st century AD, around the middle of that century, originating in the Roman province of Judea. It began as a Jewish Christian sect centered on the teachings, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, who was seen by his followers as the Messiah and the Son of God. The movement initially consisted of Jesus' disciples and early followers, primarily Jewish, and then expanded to Gentiles, evolving into a distinct religion separate from Judaism over time.

Origins and Early Development

Christianity took shape with Jesus' ministry in Galilee and Judea, his crucifixion around 30-33 AD, and his resurrection, which became the foundation of Christian faith. Following Jesus' death, his apostles and early disciples spread his teachings, first among Jewish communities and then among Gentiles. The conversion of Gentiles and missionary work by figures such as Paul of Tarsus accelerated Christianity’s growth and differentiation from Judaism.

Spread and Establishment

The early Christian community was relatively small but grew steadily despite initial persecutions. By the end of the first century, Christian congregations were established in major cities of the Roman Empire, including Rome, Alexandria, and Antioch. The religion gradually spread throughout the Mediterranean region, later becoming the state religion of the Roman Empire in the 4th century.

Thus, Christianity began roughly 2,000 years ago, in the mid-1st century CE, rooted in Jewish traditions and the life of Jesus Christ, and grew into a major world religion over the following centuries.