Christian vs. Catholic — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 17, 2024
Christianity is a broad religion encompassing many denominations including Catholicism; Catholicism is a major branch of Christianity characterized by its adherence to the Papal authority and sacramental practices.
Difference Between Christian and Catholic
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Christianity refers to the religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, encompassing various denominations like Protestants, Orthodox, and Catholics. On the other hand, Catholicism specifically refers to the Roman Catholic Church, which is the largest single denomination within Christianity.
Christians generally believe in the Bible as the holy scripture and follow the teachings of Jesus. Whereas Catholics adhere strictly to the traditions and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, which include both the Bible and the magisterial teachings.
The worship practices among Christians vary widely depending on the denomination. However, Catholic worship is particularly structured around the seven sacraments, including the Eucharist, which is central to their faith.
Christianity as a whole emphasizes salvation through faith in Jesus. In contrast, Catholicism teaches that salvation comes through faith, good works, and the sacraments as administered by the Church.
Different Christian denominations have varying views on authority and governance. While Catholics recognize the Pope as the supreme earthly authority in matters of faith and morals.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
A branch of Christianity centered around the doctrines and practices of the Roman Catholic Church.
Scripture
Bible
Bible, plus Church traditions and teachings
Salvation
Generally viewed as through faith alone.
Through faith, good works, and sacraments.
Clergy
Varies widely among denominations.
Structured hierarchy, including priests, bishops, and the Pope.
Worship Practices
Diverse, depending on denomination.
Structured around the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist.
Compare with Definitions
Christian
A generic term for any of various denominations that practice Christianity.
She explored different Christian denominations to find her faith community.
Catholic
Relating to the ancient undivided Christian church.
The Nicene Creed is a statement of Catholic faith.
Christian
A person who believes in and follows Jesus Christ.
A Christian goes to church every Sunday.
Catholic
Pertaining to the Catholic Church.
The Catholic doctrine is complex and detailed.
Christian
Pertaining to or derived from Jesus Christ or His teachings.
Christian values are rooted in love and forgiveness.
Catholic
Universal; encompassing a wide variety.
He described the appeal of jazz as truly Catholic.
Christian
Someone baptized into Christianity.
He became a Christian after attending a revival meeting.
Catholic
An adherent of the Catholic faith.
As a Catholic, she attends Mass every week.
Christian
A cultural identity in some historical contexts.
In many parts of the medieval world, being a Christian was synonymous with being a part of the societal majority.
Catholic
Of the Roman Catholic faith.
Christian
Professing belief in Jesus as Christ or following the religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus.
Catholic
A member of the Roman Catholic Church.
Christian
Relating to or derived from Jesus or Jesus's teachings.
Catholic
Of broad or liberal scope; comprehensive
"The 100-odd pages of formulas and constants are surely the most catholic to be found" (Scientific American).
Christian
Manifesting the qualities or spirit of Jesus, especially in showing concern for others.
Catholic
Including or concerning all humankind; universal
"what was of catholic rather than national interest" (J.A. Froude).
Christian
Relating to or characteristic of Christianity or its adherents.
Catholic
Of or involving the Roman Catholic Church.
Christian
One who professes belief in Jesus as Christ or follows a religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus.
Catholic
Of or relating to the universal Christian church.
Christian
One who lives according to the teachings of Jesus.
Catholic
Of or relating to the ancient undivided Christian church.
Christian
Uncommon spelling of Christian
Catholic
Of or relating to those churches that have claimed to be representatives of the ancient undivided church.
Christian
Uncommon spelling of Christian
Catholic
A member of a Catholic church, especially a Roman Catholic.
Christian
One who believes, or professes or is assumed to believe, in Jesus Christ, and the truth as taught by Him; especially, one whose inward and outward life is conformed to the doctrines of Christ.
The disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
Catholic
Universal; all-encompassing.
Christian
One born in a Christian country or of Christian parents, and who has not definitely becomes an adherent of an opposing system.
Catholic
Alternative case form of Catholic.
Christian
One of a Christian denomination which rejects human creeds as bases of fellowship, and sectarian names. They are congregational in church government, and baptize by immersion. They are also called Disciples of Christ, and Campbellites.
Catholic
(obsolete) Common or prevalent; especially universally prevalent.
Christian
Pertaining to Christ or his religion; as, Christian people.
Catholic
Embracing all.
Christian
Pertaining to the church; ecclesiastical; as, a Christian court.
Catholic
Universally applicable.
Christian
Characteristic of Christian people; civilized; kind; kindly; gentle; beneficent.
The graceful tact; the Christian art.
Catholic
Of universal human interest or use.
Christian
A religious person who believes Jesus is the Christ and who is a member of a Christian denomination
Catholic
Universal or general; as, the catholic faith.
Men of other countries [came] to bear their part in so great and catholic a war.
Christian
Relating to or characteristic of Christianity;
Christian rites
Catholic
Not narrow-minded, partial, or bigoted; liberal; as, catholic tastes.
Christian
Following the teachings or manifesting the qualities or spirit of Jesus Christ
Catholic
Of or pertaining to, or affecting the Roman Catholics; as, the Catholic emancipation act.
Catholic
A person who accepts the creeds which are received in common by all parts of the orthodox Christian church.
Catholic
An adherent of the Roman Catholic church; a Roman Catholic.
Catholic
A member of a Catholic church
Catholic
Of or relating to or supporting Catholicism;
The Catholic Church
Common Curiosities
What is a Christian?
A Christian is anyone who follows Christianity, a religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Can a person be a Christian but not a Catholic?
Yes, there are many Christian denominations other than Catholicism, such as Protestantism and Orthodoxy.
How do Christians worship?
Christian worship varies by denomination but typically includes prayer, Bible reading, and hymns.
What are the core beliefs of Catholics?
Catholics believe in the authority of the Church, the sacraments, and the teachings of the Bible and Church tradition.
What defines a Catholic?
A Catholic is a member of the Roman Catholic Church, which follows the Pope in Vatican City.
What role do good works play in Catholicism?
Good works are seen as a necessary component of faith leading to salvation.
What is the difference in the Bible used by Christians and Catholics?
Catholics use the Bible including the Deuterocanonical books, whereas most other Christians use a Bible without these books.
What is the significance of the sacraments in Catholicism?
Sacraments in Catholicism are considered means of grace, necessary for salvation.
Do all Christians celebrate the Eucharist?
Most do, but the understanding and significance of the Eucharist can differ widely.
How do Catholics view the Pope?
Catholics view the Pope as the spiritual leader and supreme authority on Earth.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
