Discover the main differences between Catholics and Christians that you should know

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Introduction

It is common for many people to think that Catholics and Christians They are the same, however, this is not entirely true.

Origins

Christians

Christians emerged in the XNUMXst century after Christ when Jesus of Nazareth preached in Galilee and Judea. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, his disciples founded the Christian church.

Catholics

For their part, Catholics emerged in the XNUMXth century after Christ when the Roman emperor Constantine converted to Christianity and made it the official religion of the empire. The Catholic Church was consolidated with the papacy in Rome.

Doctrines

Christians

The Christian church is based in the Bible as the sacred book and main source of teaching. In most Christian churches, the interpretation of the Bible is increasingly personal, although there are some differences as to how certain texts or biblical passages should be interpreted.

Catholics

Catholic doctrine is based on the Bible and the tradition and teachings of the church, known as the magisterium. Catholics have a catechism that is a set of official teachings and is considered equally sacred as the Bible.

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External

Christians

Christians usually practice baptism by immersion, as well as the Eucharist or the Holy Supper, where the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are remembered. Most Christian churches do not have a centralized leader.

Catholics

Catholics practice baptism by sprinkling and communion through transubstantiation, where bread and wine are believed to become the body and blood of Christ. The centralized leader of the Church is the pope, who is considered the successor of Peter, the first apostle of Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

While Catholics are Christians, not all Christians are Catholics, as the latter is only a branch of Christianity. It is important to note that, beyond differences in beliefs and practices, both Catholics and Christians profess faith in Jesus Christ.

References

  • Howell, E.W. (2013). What's the difference?: A comparison of the beliefs, practices, and histories of the major world religions. Hachette UK.
  • Alvarez, J.L. (2002). Catholics and Protestants: an apology in defense of the Catholic faith. Word.
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