The Evolution of Historical Dating Systems: A.D. vs. C.E. and B.C. vs. B.C.E.
When did the use of A.D. and C.E. become more common than B.C. and B.C.E.? The answer, as I see it, is never. Personally, I continue to use 'B.C.' to date the world, which stands for 'Before Christ.' I also use 'A.D., ' short for 'anno Domini.' I refuse to change these terms to the more secular 'B.C.E.' and 'C.E.,' which stand for 'Before the Christian Era' and 'Christian Era,' respectively.
The desire to secularize the dating system, as some suggest, is primarily motivated by a politics of correctness, which is a concept that I and, I believe, many others should not bow to. While it is certainly understandable that some do not identify with the figure of Jesus Christ, refusing to acknowledge his impact on civilization at large seems misguided. Jesus Christ, a pivotal figure in Western civilization, literally changed the world.
The Historical and Cultural Impact of Christ
Whether one believes that Jesus Christ was the Son of God or not, the fact remains that his influence is undeniable. Western civilization, as well as all of life, is unexplainable without some knowledge of Christ. A working knowledge of the New Testament is essential for anyone to be considered truly intelligent. Everyone, regardless of their beliefs, has a strong opinion about Jesus Christ.
The New Testament and the entire Bible have shaped a significant portion of our cultural, philosophical, and moral framework. From moral principles to our legal systems, scientific advancements, and even names for our children, the influence of the New Testament is profound. Many of our sayings and aspects of Western civilization are deeply rooted in the teachings and stories found within these texts.
Science, Technology, and Medicine
It is also worth noting that virtually every scientific, technological, engineering, and medical advancement can trace its roots to the foundation laid by the New Testament. The period of time that marked the transition into the European civilization was a significant leap in human understanding and development. Interestingly, even the field of science that seeks natural explanations for everything and denies the possibility of the spiritual or supernatural stands on a firm foundation of the Judeo-Christian worldview. This connection has been extensively documented and discussed in many scholarly works.
Current Debates and Attempts to Remove Christ from History
Today, with a growing number of individuals holding strong opinions on the role of Jesus in history, we see a consistent and constant effort to remove Christ from various aspects of society. This includes attempts to erase His influence from institutions, events, and even the very way we date time. One prominent example is the attempt to rebrand Christmas, a holiday deeply rooted in Christian tradition, as something else.
While it is important to be respectful and inclusive of diverse beliefs, it is equally important to recognize and honor the historical contributions of influential figures like Jesus Christ. Removing Christ from the narrative not only disregards the significant impact he has had on human civilization but also stands against the reality of his influence on many aspects of modern life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it is true that many people now prefer the terms B.C.E. and C.E., the use of A.D. and B.C. has a rich history and cultural significance that should not be dismissed. The significance of these terms underscores the profound impact of Jesus Christ on Western civilization and our understanding of history. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the religious implications, the undeniable truth is that Christ has played a crucial role in shaping our world as we know it today.