2. Largest Religion in World – over 2 Billion followers Based on teachings of JESUS CHRIST One God – Monotheism Christians regard Jesus as Son of God House of worship – Church Services conducted by Priest/Pastor CHRISTIANITY

3. Holy Book of Christians – BIBLE 2 major parts: Old Testament {Hebrew Scriptures} New Testament {teachings of Jesus’ disciples} BIBLE

4. 6 – 4 B.C. Born in BETHLEHEM Age of 30 – began preaching, reportedly performed miracles Main source of info – GOSPELS – writings of Jesus’disciples the APOSTLES Many believed he was the MESSIAH (savior) JESUS CHRIST

5. The 12 Apostles PETER ANDREW JAMES {son of Zebedee} JOHN PHILLIP BARTHOLOMEW THOMAS MATTHEW JAMES {son of Alphaeus} THADDAEUS SIMON JUDAS

6. Viewed as a threat by Jewish leaders – betrayed by Judas – Jesus is arrested – then turned over to the Roman Prefect (Governor) in Judaea – PONTIUS PILATE Pilate serves as Judge – finds Jesus innocent but lets crowd determine Jesus’ fate - he then sentenced Jesus to death by CRUCIFIXION {nailed to a wooden cross left to die} JESUS CHRIST

8. CHRISTOS is a GREEK word meaning “savior” Jesus’ followers become known as “Christians” By the 3 rd century A.D. millions in Roman Empire CHRIST

9. Embraced ALL People {men/women, young/old, rich/poor…} Gave Hope to the Powerless Offered a Personal Relationship with God Promised Eternal Life After Death WHY DID CHRISTIANITY GROW?

10. Romans – Polytheistic – persecuted Christians for refusing to WORSHIP Roman Gods Crucified, Burned Used for entertainment – killed by Wild Animals in Arenas Romans/Christianity

11. 313 A.D. Roman Emperor CONSTANTINE ends Persecution of Christians 380 A.D. Roman Emperor THEODOSIUS made Christianity the Official Religion of Roman Empire Roman Emperors CONSTANTINE THEODOSIUS