The Spread of Christianity

Reading Guide

How did each of the following people influence the development of Christianity as a new religion? 

1. Jesus of Nazareth was the “savior” or “messiah”. The religion derived from him.

2. The Jews were the first followers of Jesus. 

3. Pontius Pilate was the Roman commander who had Jesus put to death. 

4. Peter was told to build a church and all priests and bishops left an authority to him.

How did each of the following help to promote the spread of Christianity? 

5. Pax Romana: It was safe to travel and everybody spoke the same language, Latin or Greek.

6. Paul wrote letters and traveled to teach about Jesus. 

7. Constantine declared Christianity as an approved religion. 

8. Theodosius made Christianity the official religion of the empire.

Terms

Jesus: Leader who came to be known as Christ & was believed to be the savior

Apostle: Close follower of Jesus

Paul: Apostle who played a key role in the spread of Christianity throughout the empire

Diaspora: Moving away of the Jews from their homeland in Palestina

Constantine: Roman Emperor who ended the persecution of Christians

Bishop: Head of all the churches in one area

Peter: First apostle who helped spread Christianity through Syria & Palestine

Pope: Head of all the Christian church

Questions:

2. Which event do you feel was most significant in the spread of Christianity? Why?

Probably when Constantine ended prosecution because then more and more people can worship God without getting scared. 

3. What did Jesus emphasize in his early teachings?

He emphasized that personal relationships with God, the importance of people's love for God, neighbors, and enemies. Also, offered eternal life if you repented for your sins

4. Why did the early Christians face persecution from the Romans?

They faced persecution because they refused to worship the Roman gods

5. What was the importance of the Nicene Creed?

The Nicene Creed was important because it defined the Church basic beliefs