Is the popularity of christianity just sheer luck in reference to geographical location?

Question

Do you think that religious diversity would be any different if the largest historical empire rose out of, say, South America? Or just an entirely different culture?

Or do you think christianity would have eventually become the most popular religion anyway? But if not for the Roman Empire, would modern day christianity in this alternate universe be anything like what is practiced now?

Okay ... I'm talking about historically ... how christianity spread "back in the day", so to speak.

Answer 1

I'm sure you're right about the influences. If it hadn't been for that abysmal git Constantine, Christianity would have faded away like millions before and since. The idea of a world dominated by, say, Aztec religions is a weird one, but possible no doubt.

But don't underestimate contemporary Christianity's staying power: it's a powerful meme, that has evolved clever ways to suck in neophytes, remove their objections and turn them into both resources and infectious units. It encourages reproduction of pre-conditioned new members.

If left to itself, free from constraints, it would doubtless return to the 'good old days' of the Dark Ages and absolute dominion - and it's trying hard to do that.

CD

Answer 2

Geographical location certainly played a factor.. The power of the Roman Empire is also a factor. If they'd never been that powerful Chritianity probably wouldn't be as widespread.

Although every religion has a its values, you have to consider that most children are born with a religion, such as Muslim children are born praying to their god, and Buddhist parents have children that pray for theirs. Although it happens, it is much less common to see someone switching religions.

All that comes down to Geographical location is a key factor.

Answer 3

It would be helpful to consider how Christianity is spreading today. The largest Christian group is the Catholic Church with over 1.2 billion members. It's most rapid growth is in Africa and it's largest populations are in the southern hemisphere.
By the way, there is no such thing as "luck."

Answer 4

the spread of christianity is due mostly to more children being born into the cult than those who are converted from another religion. children accept what they are being told as truth and are ripe for brain washing while those who have been converted have already under gone brain washing in their own religion and are ripe to accept anything told to them.

Answer 5

Jesus sent out 70 men to spread the gospel...He said the gates of hell would not destroy it.....And it has not.....If Paul would have gone to Africa or any other place to start the church it would have found it's way to America.....God wants the entire world evangelized.....

Answer 6

First, no Christianity without Paul. Jesus would have been just another tale that withered away.

If we'd left the Incas alone, who knows what would have happened technologically?

Answer 7

It's very possible that if China had not stagnated in bureaucracy that Buddhism would be predominate. Other alternatives are possible as well.

Answer 8

depends on how your define "most popular"

Answer 9

no....Methodists are everywhere...presbys though arent in the north...but down here we see them around..