In a speculative age it unfolded into creeds and systems.

In a worshipping age it developed ceremonies and a ritual.

When the fall of Rome left Europe without unity or centre, it gave it an organization and order through the Papacy.

When the Papacy became a tyranny, and the Renaissance called for free thought, it suddenly put forth Protestantism, as the tree by the water-side sends forth its shoots in due season.

Protestantism, free as air, opens out into the various sects, each taking hold of some human need; Lutheranism, Calvinism, Methodism, Swedenborgianism, or Rationalism.
Christianity blossoms out into modern science, literature, art,--children who indeed often forget their mother, and are ignorant of their source, but which are still fed from her breasts and partake of her life.
Christianity, the spirit of faith, hope, and love, is the deep fountain of modern civilization.