Chapter 6: The Rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the notes on the rise and spread of Christianity in the Roman world.

Christianity

A monotheistic religion that emerged from Judaism, centered on the life and teachings of Jesus and later spread throughout the Roman Empire.

Messiah

In Jewish expectation, the savior; in Christianity, Jesus is believed to be the Messiah who would restore Israel.

Jesus of Nazareth

A Jewish preacher born in Bethlehem (c. 6–4 BCE) who taught in Nazareth and Galilee, preached about God's kingdom, performed miracles, and was crucified under Pontius Pilate.

Gospels

The four New Testament books that recount Jesus' life, teachings, and works.

New Testament

The second part of the Christian Bible containing the Gospels, Epistles, and other early Christian writings.

Epistles

Letters written by early Christian leaders, especially Paul, to Christian communities explaining beliefs and practices.

Paul the Apostle

A Jew who converted to Christianity, spread Jesus' teachings, and argued that Christians were not obliged to follow Jewish law.

Pax Romana

Roman Peace; a period of relative stability that facilitated travel and the spread of ideas, including Christianity.

Constantine

Roman emperor who converted to Christianity after a vision before battle and endorsed the faith with political support.

Edict of Milan

A.D. 313 decree granting religious tolerance to Christians within the Roman Empire.

Theodosius

Roman emperor who made Christianity the empire's official religion in A.D. 380.

Nicene Creed

A statement of core Christian beliefs established at the Council of Nicaea in 325 C.E.

Augustine

Bishop of Hippo who argued for God's grace in salvation and wrote The City of God.

City of God

Augustine's work contrasting the heavenly City of God with earthly cities and defending Christianity.

Diaspora

The dispersion of Jews beyond Judea after the destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem in 70 C.E.

Martyr

A person who dies or suffers for their faith; many early Christians were martyrs under Roman persecution.

Persecution

Roman opposition to Christians, including exile, imprisonment, or execution for refusing to worship Roman gods.

Apostle Peter (Peter)

One of Jesus' closest followers, traditionally considered the first bishop of Rome and the foundation of the Church.

Pope

The Bishop of Rome; traditionally viewed as the head of the Roman Catholic Church; Peter is regarded as the first pope.

Bishop

A church leader who oversees several local churches within a region as part of the early Church hierarchy.

Monotheism

Belief in a single, all-powerful God; central to Judaism and Christianity.

Cross

The symbol of Christianity representing Jesus' crucifixion and salvation.

Jesus' Teachings (Love and Ethics)

Core ethical teachings attributed to Jesus, such as loving enemies and treating others as you want to be treated.