Christianity Explored
Christianity Explored is a popular Christian educational course designed to introduce people to the Christian faith and the teachings of Jesus Christ. It was developed by Rico Tice, an Anglican clergyman associated with All Souls Church, Langham Place, and co-authored by Barry Cooper. The course is part of a broader ministry known as Christianity Explored Ministries.
Structure and Content
Christianity Explored is typically conducted over a series of sessions, often lasting around seven weeks. Each session is designed to explore critical questions of life and faith, using the Gospel of Mark as a foundational text. The course encourages participants to think deeply about the identity of Jesus, the purpose of His life, death, and resurrection, and the implications for individuals today.
Sessions and Themes
The sessions cover various themes, including:
- Who is Jesus? - This session examines the historical and theological identity of Jesus, emphasizing His divinity and humanity.
- Why did Jesus come? - Participants explore the purpose of Jesus's ministry and His teachings about the Kingdom of God.
- What does it mean for us? - The course concludes with discussions on the personal implications of Jesus's teachings and how they relate to concepts of sin and salvation.
Each session involves group discussions, Bible readings, and video presentations. This interactive approach is designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of Christian beliefs and encourage personal reflection.
Development and Influence
Christianity Explored has expanded significantly since its inception. In 2016, Life Explored was introduced as a complementary course, focusing on the broader aspects of life's purpose and meaning from a Christian perspective. Another course, Discipleship Explored, directed by Barry Cooper, provides a deeper dive into the practices and lifestyle of a Christian disciple.
The courses developed by Christianity Explored Ministries are widely recognized for their clarity and accessibility, often used in conjunction with other evangelical tools like the Alpha Course. These programs aim to foster a welcoming environment for both believers and seekers to explore fundamental questions of faith.
Global Reach
Christianity Explored has been translated into numerous languages and adapted for various cultural contexts, thus broadening its impact worldwide. The course is used by churches, small groups, and individuals seeking a structured introduction to the Christian faith.