History of the "Church" and Doctrine
Joshua 24:14-16 Now, then, fear YAHWEH, and serve Him in sincerity and truth, and turn away from the gods which your fathers served Beyond the River, and in Egypt; and you serve YAHWEH. And if it seems evil in your eyes to serve YAHWEH, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve, whether the gods whom your fathers served Beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. But as for me and my house, we will serve YAHWEH. And the people replied and said, Far be it from us to forsake YAHWEH, to serve other gods.
What is the History of the "Christian Church"?
The history of the Christian Church is vast and complex, spanning over two millennia. Here’s a brief overview of its development as recorded by Christians:
Origins to 312
- Christianity began with the ministry of Jesus Christ in the 1st century AD in the Roman province of Judea.
- After Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, his followers spread his teachings, forming the early Christian communities.
Late Antiquity to Early Middle Ages (313–600)
- The Edict of Milan in 313 AD granted religious tolerance for Christianity within the Roman Empire.
- The First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD established the foundation of Christian doctrine and the Nicene Creed.
Early Middle Ages (600–1100)
- Christianity spread throughout Europe, often blending with local traditions and cultures.
- The split between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church began to form.
Western High Middle Ages (1100–1300)
- The Crusades were military campaigns sanctioned by the Latin Church in the medieval period, aiming to recover the Holy Land from Islamic rule.
- Scholasticism, a method of critical thought, became a dominant theological and philosophical school of thought within the Church.
Eastern Christianity (1000–1586)
- The Great Schism in 1054 formally divided the Eastern (Orthodox) and Western (Catholic) Churches.
- Eastern Christianity spread into Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe.
Late Middle Ages (1300–1500)
- The Black Death and other societal challenges led to questioning and criticism of the Church.
- The Renaissance brought about a renewed interest in humanism and classical knowledge.
Early Modern (1500–1750)
- The Protestant Reformation, initiated by figures like Martin Luther, led to the creation of Protestant denominations.
- The Catholic Church responded with the Counter-Reformation to address internal corruption and reaffirm Catholic doctrine.
Revolution and Modernity (1750–1945)
- The Age of Enlightenment challenged traditional Christian beliefs with a focus on reason and science.
- Christianity continued to spread globally through missionary work and colonization.
Christianity since 1945
- Ecumenism and interfaith dialogue have become more prominent in the modern era.
- The Church faces new challenges and changes in the context of secularization and globalization.
But is there more to it than just this?
Does the recorded history we have been provided with, speak of the original Way? Or another path entirely?
“The Way” is a term used in the scriptures to refer to the early apostolic movement and followers of Yahweh. It’s a significant concept that encapsulates the teachings, the path of faith, and the assemblies that formed around the message of Yahshua as the One Redeemer of mankind. Here’s a detailed look into the history and significance of “The Way” as described in the Scriptures:
Scriptural Context of ‘The Way’
- The term “The Way” appears several times in the book of Acts (Acts 9:2; 19:9, 19:23; 22:4; 24:14, 24:22) and is associated with the early followers of Yahshua.
- It is believed that the early apostles referred to themselves as followers of “The Way” before the term “Christians” was used.
- This designation likely comes from Yahshua’s own declaration in John 14:6, where He states, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Early Persecution and Growth
- Saul of Tarsus, who later became the Apostle Paul, initially persecuted those who belonged to “The Way” before his conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:2; 22:4).
- After his conversion, Paul became a fervent missionary of “The Way,” spreading the teachings of Yahshua across the Roman Empire and abroad.
The Way and Jewish Roots
- Initially, “The Way” was considered a sect within Judaism. The followers observed Mosaic law, Temple traditions, and dietary customs while also believing in Yahshua as the prophesied Messiah.
- Over time, as the movement grew and Gentiles, (believers from other nations), joined “The Way”, it had begun to distinguish itself as THE faith tradition.
Teachings and Practices
- The followers of “The Way” emphasized living a life according to the teachings of Yahshua, which included love, forgiveness, humility, and service to Yahweh.
- The main purpose was to share the fact that Yahweh Almighty has prepared a way of salvation according to the original instructions handed down throughout the generations via the Torah.
- They met in homes for worship, shared meals, and partook in the Feasts of Yahweh, encouraging as many as they could.
Spread and Influence
- “The Way” spread rapidly throughout the Roman Empire, despite facing persecution from both Jewish authorities and Roman officials.
- Its message of hope, salvation, and eternal life attracted many, leading to the establishment of Yahwist assemblies across the Mediterranean region.
Recognition and Transformation
- By the 4th century, with the Edict of Milan, The Way gained legal status within the Roman Empire, and “The Way” transitioned from a persecuted movement to an established religion. This organized religion became known as the Christian Sect.
- The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD further solidified Christian doctrine, distancing “The Way” from its Jewish roots and shaping the future of Christian theology.
Legacy from a Christian Perspective
- Today, “The Way” is remembered as the early phase of Christianity among young Christians. A time of growth, formation, and foundational teachings that have influenced their thought and practices but are no longer valid.
- The term continues to resonate with many as a symbol of the journey of faith and the pursuit of a life modeled after the Messiah's example. However, among those who refer to themselves as Christians, the phrase, "The Way" has become synonymous with cultic worship.
Modern Times
- Today "Yahwists" and Torah observant followers of "The Way" are now considered cultic practices among Christianity.
- Forbidding the use of Yahweh's name or the original name of the Messiah, in worship and song as well as liturgy.
- Restricting worship on the original and perpetually commanded seventh day Sabbath, and forcing worship on day one, to pay homage to the cultures and nations that worship the Sun and Pagan deities.
- Changing or replacing the commanded, and well-established, festivals of Yahweh, with pagan practices syncretized by pagan religions. Celebrating, pagan holidays, initiated and handed down by the other nations. Here is a short article by Christian Website "Christian Guide"
Do we have two distinct paths to Eternity? Or are we seeing something more sacred in one path than we do in the other?
Join us as we stroll through the history of the "Church" and her Doctrines and the contrast between The Way shown to us by the Scriptures, the Apostles, and the Messiah Himself.
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