CHRISTIANITY IN ROME P. 380-389

Rome’s policy on religion Allowed conquered people to keep beliefs Worshipped many gods Banned religions if political problem

Judaism & Rome Jews’ worship of only one god insulted Rome’s gods Jews rebel against Rome rule Rome crush revolt, destroy Jerusalem, force Jews to leave city

Jews waiting for Messiah Jews believed Messiah would restore Jewish nation & lead them Many thought Messiah would come soon, like John the Baptist

Origins of Christianity Jesus born in Bethlehem & raised in Nazareth (Thus named Jesus of Nazareth) Preached and gained followers (disciples) Christians believe he performed miracles (healing people, feeding crowds)

Jesus’ Teachings Used parables (stories to teach lessons) Love God & other people (even poor, sick & enemies) Salvation (rescue from sin)

Crucifixion & Resurrection Arrested & crucified Christians believe he was resurrected he is the Messiah and son of God. He was thus named Jesus Christ (Christos is Greek word for Messiah)

Followers teach others 12 Apostles – chosen disciples of Jesus (and later Paul) Peter (one apostle) became leader, traveled & taught. Eventually lived in Rome Wrote gospels (accounts of Jesus’ life)

Paul Born Jewish & persecuted Christians Converted Traveled & taught Christianity throughout Roman Empire Wrote letters to early churches (included in the Bible) Encouraged non-Jews to also be included Trinity – God the Father, Jesus the Son, Holy Spirit

Rome’s reaction to Christianity Most emperors allowed Christianity Some feared Christianity causing unrest & so banned it and persecuted followers (those killed for beliefs are called martyrs)

Constantine Became emperor in 306 AD Legend: when preparing for battle, saw a cross in the sky, indicating God’s support in battle. He won battle. Allowed Christianity & even became a Christian

Theodosius I Christian Ruler Banned non-Christian religions in 381AD

Early Church leadership Bishops led local communities Bishop of Rome most influential. Eventually is known as Pope. (spiritual successor of Peter) Bishops lead celebration of the Eucharist – eat bread & drink wine in memory of Jesus