Spread of Christianity—Religious Factors 2.0 / 5 based on 3 ratings ? Religious StudiesActsASCCEA Created by: Erin WCreated on: 12-04-18 16:42 Intro Christianity began in Jerusalem. Michael Green "Probably no period in the history of the world was better suited to receive the infant church than the first century AD." Christianity spread from a small sect to the primary faith of the Roman Empire by the fourth century. 1 of 6 Missionary Work First factor—Missionary work. Paul—one of the first and most remarkable. Brought Christianity to Jews and Gentiles—universalism. Andrew Marr "Christianity spread at the pace of one man's tramp accross Europe." Spread new but also founded Churches in Asia Minor—Corinth. His belief in the Parousia enabled it to spread quickly as he was in a hurry. 2 of 6 Martyrdom Stephen—first Christian martyr. Suffered throughout first 3 centuries—killed for their faith. Romans thought to deter—quickened spread as Gentiles were impressed by their courage. Blandina—13 year-old girl—tortured but never denied her faith. Tertullian "The more you mow us down the more we grow." Persecution and martyrdom led to people fleeing and taking their faith with them. 3 of 6 Type/Place of Worship and Religio Licita Chriatians initially worshipped in synagogue—more secret and safe. Could convert more Jews and God-fearers. Spread quickly in these groups. Early Christians said Jewish prayers—Acts 2:42. Jews saw similarities—little difference in ideologies. 'Legal religion.' Romans considered Christianity a branch of Judaism. Romans respected Judaism as it was ancient. Protected from persecution—could grow further. 4 of 6 Jewish Diaspora 6 BC because of the Babylonian Judah. Jews were forced to immigrate—led to Jewish settlements around the Empire. Jews could be found in all parts of the Empire. Paul could visit synagogues and spread message. Rome conquered Israel in 70 AD—Jews and Christians fled and took gospel with them. 5 of 6 Christianity Shared common popular views—abortion and divorce. Cared for the less fortunate—helped popularity. Socially inclusive—universalism. Galatians "You are all one in Christ Jesus." Gentiles liked monotheism as they thought Empire was unified around one man (the Emperor). Appealed to the 'one God, one Empire, one Emperor' ideology. 6 of 6
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