Ancient Rome and the Rise of Christianity

Jesus (The Man) Born in 4 B.C. in Bethlehem Believer in God and followed Jewish law Used parables to spread teachings (Short stories with simple moral lessons) Recruited 12 disciples called apostles Preached a message of peace/love

Jesus (The Prophet ) Teachings of Jesus of Nazareth developed into new religion—Christianity Teachings of Jesus Challenged Roman and religious leaders Jesus arrested, tried, sentenced to death – According to New Testament Performed Miracles Rose from dead Ascended into Christian heaven

Christianity Gains Popularity Life After Death – Christianity promised life after death in heaven. In the Roman religion, only gods went to heaven. Everyone else went to the underworld. Equality – All could join and be equally a Christian. Social Chaos – Conflict in empire drove desire for new belief. Martyrdom – Death of Jesus highlighted and elevated status of his teachings

Like all other contemporary politicians, Constantine had sought divine assistance Was in conflict with Maxentius for control of Western Empire Maxentius seized power in West Constantine gathered his forces and decided to oust Maxentius himself Constantine

Battle loomed as Constine and his army approached Rome Before the battle looked into the sun and saw a cross of light above it Constantine commanded his troops to adorn their shields with a Christian symbol Constantine won the battle Battle of Milvian Bridge

Christianization of the Empire Issues Edict of Milan (Religious Tolerance) Slowly began to suppress other religions Policies implemented to favor Christian Church Eventually Christianity became dominant religion in empire