Reasons for widespread appeal of Christianity?

Answer 1

There are various ways to answer that question. To a Christian the answer would obviously be that people appreciate truth when they hear it, or possibly that it is God's will that Christianity should be popular. To a non-Christian, the answer would be that it is largely a historical accident that the Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity when it was still a very minor cult, and he used his vast influence as Emperor of Rome to spread Christianity throughout Europe, and as a further historical accident, since the Industrial Revolution began in Europe, the cultural and religious influence of Europe became greatly magnified.

Answer 2

Christianity is said to have been founded in the first century CE. It grew slowly throughout the Roman Empire until, at the beginning of the 4th century, it probably involved around ten percent of the population.

At this point, Emperor Constantine gave the proto-Catholic-Orthodox branch of Christianity state patronage. This patronage made Christianity socially and politically desirable for some, and the religion grew quite rapidly. In the decade of the 380s, Christianity was made the state religion, and in 391 CE pagan worship was banned. Although paganism continued on the fringes of the Empire for some centuries, the ban on pagan worship meant that every person was officially required to be a Christian.

Later, Christianity spread throughout the World, often at the point of the sword. In other cases, European technology so over-awed the native people, that the Christian religion seemed to be part of the new magic. Of course, in other cases, there were good and dedicated missionaries who believed that conversion should be voluntary and based solely on acceptance of the word of God.

Children learn Christianity from their parents and other role models. Often mandatory attendance at Sunday School and church is part of the family routine. For many, by the time they reach adulthood, Christianity becomes such an important part of their personal identity that to not accept Christianity seems unthinkable.

Answer 3

Because it's an easy religion to follow. All you have to do is believe in Jesus and you're automatically saved and be rewarded with everlasting life in heaven.