1. The Rise of Christianity World History I Ms. Reed

2. Christianity Begins Judea was a province of the Roman Empire, home to the Jewish people. Jesus was said to be born in Bethlehem around 6-4 BC to Jewish parents. Raised in Nazareth, he was a carpenter until age 30. Jesus began to preach growing a personal relationship with God and stressed helping others (specifically the poor)

3. The Death of Jesus Many proclaimed Jesus to be the Messiah and son of God. This did not go over well with Roman authorities who were growing worried over Jesus’ growing influence. Jesus was sentenced to be crucified. Jesus’ followers believed that he was resurrected after death and ascended to heaven.

4. Christianity Spreads The followers of Jesus became known as Christians and knowledge of Jesus spread through the Roman Empire through Apostles. Apostles were Jesus’ original chosen followers. The most important of these was Paul. He traveled spreading messages of salvation for all those who accept Jesus. The New Testament became the collections of writings about Jesus and was added to the Jewish Old Testament to create the Bible. The center of the Christian belief system.

5. Problems in the Roman World Christianity was monotheistic and the Romans were polytheistic. The Romans persecuted many Christians because of their refusal to worship the Roman gods. Christianity was not liked by Roman officials because it was a popular message to the poor and lower parts of Roman society. They found the message of salvation appealing. Those who died due to persecution were called Martyrs and were the inspiration for many early Christians. Christians were blamed for the problems of society.

6. Christian oppression changes with Emperor Constantine! Looking Ahead