The Rise of Christianity and its Impact on the Roman Empire Christianity began as an offshoot of Judaism. Christians believe that Jesus Christ was the son of God and that by following his message their souls will be saved. Christianity was very appealing to poor, powerless people. Christianity spread rapidly through the Roman empire, and eventually became the official religion of Rome.

Jews under Roman Rule By 63 BCE – Judea controlled by Rome Some cooperate with Rome Zealots – seek to kick Rome out Messiah – was a savior who was predicted to arrive soon Many small movements at the time looking for Messiah Followers of Jesus Christ believed he was the Messiah

Jesus Christ as a Historical Figure Carpenter who became public teacher / preacher around 30 yrs Message = – 1. Personal relationship with loving God, – 2. God would establish eternal kingdom of heaven for repentant sinners 12 Disciples / Apostles – Most info from them Message is well received by poor, etc

Death of Jesus Arrives in Jerusalem – Seen as threat by Roman and Jewish leaders Arrested, executed (Pontius Pilate) Body disappears – followers claim he appeared to him After “resurrection” many come to believe he was Messiah (Christos = Messiah) Apostles spread message – led by Peter

How did Christianity spread so fast? Example of Paul – Before – enemy of Christianity, claims a vision – Later – spends his life spreading message of Christ Pax Romana – Makes travel safe, easy – allows for rapid spread of ideas Universal Appeal of the message helps spread it Jewish Rebellion and Diaspora contributes to spread

Persecution of Christians Refusal to worship Roman gods = opposition to Roman authority Christians used as scapegoats – Nero example Martyrs Persecution did little to slow growth of Christianity

Organization of Christian Church Very hierarchical Priest Bishop Bishop of Rome (Pope) Rome is center of power SO.. Becomes center of Church

Emperor Constantine becomes a Christian While preparing for battle, Constantine prays, has a vision of a cross Constantine starts to practice Christianity, but doesn’t officially convert until just before death Constantine ends persecution Edict of Milan – makes it an official religion 380 – becomes official religion of Rome

Issues faced by the early church Codification of beliefs – Heresy – New Testament – Council of Nicea St. Augustine and the “City of God”