What did Christianity start as?

Answer 1

Christianity started as Christianity. Christianity did not develope from some other belief into what it is today.

People were first called Christians in Antioch, probably this was at first a term of reproach.

Answer 2

The disciples (meaning imitators) of Jesus Christ began to be 'called out' on Pentecost Sunday, June 17, 31 AD, outside of the Upper Room in Jerusalem. They referred to themselves as 'The Way' or followers of the Nazarene - primarily Jewish but rapidly incorporating gentiles as well - the 'little flock.'


It wasn't until Antioch some 10 years afterwards, that the 'derogatory' label of Christians - followers of Christ - was first used. This term has become the dominant term since for the over 30,000 groups/churches calling themselves 'Christian' each with some difference in structure or interpretation of the Scripture. Jesus, however, began one 'Church of God' as a home and training area for those called out in their lifetimes to follow Christ and do God's works (see John 6:44, 65; and Ephesians 2:10). During the Millennial Reign and the Judgment process to follow, the rest of mankind - the greater harvest - will be called and given the opportunity the 'firstfruits' have in their lifetimes.