1. The Rise of Christianity

2. Founder Jesus of Nazareth (Born a Jew)
Born in Judea, southern part of Roman province of Palestine
Grew up in Nazareth
Began teaching and traveling around age 30
Spoke in homes (later became synagogues-Jewish places of worship)
Small group of followers = disciples
12 disciples became the Apostles (continued teaching after Jesus left)

3. Teachings Based on Judaism
Christianity grew from and is an extension of Judaism
Judaism and Christianity are monotheistic and believe in one divine being referred to as Yahweh (God)
Encouraged people to follow the 10 commandments
God loves everyone
All should be kind to each other, forgiveness & mercy
Belief in God will bring peace and joy
After death, enter Heaven

4. Diffusion Jesus’ message spread throughout Palestine
Local leaders felt that he would anger the Roman government
Jesus was crucified (death on a cross), followers claim he rose from the dead = Messiah (the One who saves)
After his death, his followers continued to preach & teach by traveling through the Roman empire

6. Persecution to Acceptance
Christians were tortured at first for their new beliefs
Contrary to polytheistic Roman gods
Killed, fed to animals, burned at stakes, etc.
Emperor Constantine-
A.D. 313-Made Christianity equal to all other religions
Was baptized a Christian before he died
Emperor Theodosius
380-A.D. Made Christianity Rome’s official religion, beginning of Roman Catholic Church

7. Present times Christianity continues to spread & be practiced
Some different beliefs & customs among followers
Believers say that Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to be with His followers on Earth
Holy trinity = Father, Son, & Holy Spirit