#religion/christianity The term "Christianity" specifically refers to the faith and religious practices centered around the belief in Jesus Christ as the Messiah and the Son of God. This faith emerged after the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, which are central to Christian belief. Before Jesus was born, the faith of the people, particularly the Jewish people, was not called "Christianity." Instead, it was (and still is) known as Judaism. Judaism is an ancient monotheistic religion, with its own unique beliefs, practices, scriptures (which Christians refer to as the Old Testament), and expectations of a Messiah. While Christianity shares some roots with Judaism, particularly in the form of shared scriptures and certain beliefs, it is distinct in its focus on Jesus Christ as the central figure.