1. THE RISE OF CHRISTIANITY

2. Rome conquered Judea in 63 BCE Roman religious tolerance allowed Jews to maintain their religion A few groups resisted Roman control ROMAN CONTROL OF JUDEA

3. Zealots  wanted to drive the Romans out and restore the Kingdom of Israel The Messiah  Some were waiting for the prophesied Messiah who would restore the Kingdom of Israel JEWISH RESISTANCE

4. The teachings of Jesus gained him many followers Jesus’ following alarmed authorities Jesus was executed by the Romans to ease political tensions JESUS OF NAZARETH

5. Christianity was originally a branch of Judaism The most loyal followers spread the message to Jewish communities Paul removed some Jewish traditions from the message to wider appeal SPREAD OF CHRISTIANITY

6. Christianity was at first resisted because it was monotheistic Appealed to the masses because salvation was available to all Constantine converted and made it legal Theodosius made it the official religion of the empire ROMAN ACCEPTANCE

7. Priests were trained in rituals important to Christians Bishops were the head of the church in cities Patriarchs were the leaders in the most important cities Pope (bishop of Rome) claimed authority from Peter THE EARLY CHURCH