Advanced Placement (AP) World History Practice Exam 2025 - Free AP World History Practice Questions and Study Guide

The major difference between early Christian and early Muslim beliefs lies in the concept of the divinity of Jesus. Early Christians believed that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and part of a Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), which signifies that Jesus possesses a divine nature. This belief is central to Christian theology, establishing Jesus not only as a prophet but as a divine being who is integral to salvation.

In contrast, early Muslims, who adhered to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the Quran, rejected the notion of Jesus’ divinity. In Islam, Jesus (known as Isa) is considered one of the greatest prophets but not divine; Muslims uphold the belief in the oneness of God (Tawhid) and regard associating partners with God as a grave sin.

The other options highlight beliefs that are present in both religions. For instance, both traditions uphold the belief in one God, practice proselytization to some degree, and emphasize the importance of charity (almsgiving). However, the specific belief in the divinity of Jesus distinctly separates Christianity from Islam.