Religious+-+Rome

 ﻿ Roman Religion Christianity, ultimately one of the world's great religions, benefited from the Roman Empire but also contested many of it's values. In the initial decades of the Roman Empire, a new religion--Christianity--appeared. Prior to Christianity's emergence in Rome, the Roman people followed, essentially, the Greek Pantheon of gods, with different names.

Appeal of Christianity • Christianity arose in a remote area • It appealed to the poorer people of Rome, due to it's principles of equality • The idea that sinners would be punished was appealing to many of the disciples. • It answered cultural and spiritual needs--especially, but not exclusively among the poor--left unmet by mainstream politics and ethic in Roman life.

Christianity originated with Jesus of Nazareth, a Jewish prophet and teacher who was regarded as the son of god. Because of Christianity's appeal to the poor, Jesus aroused suspicion among the rich, which eventually resulted in him being crucified around 30 C.E.

Life and Death of Jesus • Jesus of Nazareth • Caused social agitation, controversy, and uprising among the poor • Urged moral based of love, charity and humility • Many followers among the poor, rich didn't like • Aroused suspicion among upper classes and Jewish leaders • Put to Death, Crucified with criminals, 30 C.E. • Followers believed he was resurrected 3 days after death • Followers believed people that did wrong went to hell

Christianity Gains Converts and Structure • 10% of Roman empire was Christian • New religion had made converts elsewhere in the Middle East and Ethiopia • Christianity attracted poor and farmers because it promised rewards after death • Bishops acted as regional governors • Brought large missionary efforts to expand Christianity.

Even after the death of Jesus, Christianity spread throughout Rome. By the 4th century C.E, about 10% of the residents of the Roman empire were Christian.