1. Early Christian Communities ~CE 200

3. In the first three centuries (CE) Christianity grew from a small, persecuted group into a widespread religious faith of the Roman Empire. How? These factors contributed to the spread of Christianity:
Christianity appealed to the poor because it promised a better life after death.
Poor people were attracted to a faith that taught that all people were equal.
Poor also were attracted to Christian communities because they provided food, shelter, etc.
The founder of Christianity was an actual person whose life could be easily understood.
Missionaries spread the faith to distant lands. (apostles—close friends/followers of Jesus, i.e. Peter and Paul)
Many Christians were persecuted; other Christians were inspired by the faith and courage of those who were mistreated. (Jesus himself + lives of the early martyrs)