1.4 Rise of Christianity

Who was Paul of Tarsus? Why is he important?

A Roman Jewish converted to Christian, who spread the teachings of Jesus to non-Jews throughout the Mediterranean world

How did Paul of Tarsus impact Christianity?

He was responsible for the spread of Christian theology and the resulting response from the Roman Empire.

His status as a Roman citizen enabled him to promote Christianity to places like Corinth, Phillipi and even Rome.

Who became the first great Christian philosopher who wrote Confessions and City of God?

St. Augustine

How did the doctrines of Christianity aid with its spread throughout Rome?

Christianity stressed equality and immortality, which was an attractive alternative to Roman religions

How does the pope influence the spread of Christianity during the Roman period?

The establishment of the supremacy of the pope at the time imperial Rome was disintegrating further legitimize Christianity and its power in government

What event in 380 AD contribute to the spread of Christianity?

The establishment of Christianity as the official Roman religion

How did Constantine play a role in the spread of Christianity?

As the first Roman emperor to claim conversion to Christianity, he played a major role in spreading Christianity by legalizing its practice and fiscally supporting the church's activities

How did the Roman Empire's efficient system help Christianity spread?

Its spread was greatly aided by the empire's political unification and extensive road system

How did persecution during the Roman period affect the spread of Christianity?

Persecution paradoxically contributed to Christianity's spread by creating solidarity among believers and inspiring admiration from non-Christians witnessing their indomitable human spirit