A large organized religion that has become an institutionalized body commanding the adherence of significant numbers of people is known as a (an):
A denomination.
B cult.
C sect.
D ecclesia.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D) ecclesia.
An ecclesia refers to a large, organized religion that is deeply integrated into the social and political fabric of a society. It is often the official or state religion, with significant institutional authority, wide adherence among the population, and substantial resources. Members of an ecclesia are generally born into the religion, as opposed to choosing to join it. The religion itself typically holds significant power and influence over societal norms, laws, and policies.
Ecclesia differs from other religious categories in its scale and institutional power. For instance, a denomination refers to a subgroup within a larger religion that shares common beliefs but might have different practices, leadership structures, or doctrines. Examples include various branches of Christianity, such as Baptists or Methodists. While denominations are organized, they do not hold the same broad social or political control as an ecclesia.
A cult, on the other hand, typically refers to a small, often fringe religious group with unconventional beliefs or practices. Cults usually have charismatic leaders and may demand extreme loyalty from followers. Unlike ecclesiae, cults are not generally integrated into society and may be viewed with suspicion or even hostility.
A sect is also a smaller religious group that has broken away from a larger, established religious tradition, often due to disagreements about doctrine or practices. Sects tend to be more exclusive than denominations and can sometimes conflict with mainstream society.
In contrast to these smaller groups, an ecclesia is a religion that is not only widespread but also entrenched in the culture and often controls political or social life. Examples of ecclesiae include Islam in some Middle Eastern countries or Christianity in medieval Europe, where the church and state were closely intertwined.