Question

1. who was most responsible for the early spread of christianity? where can his influ- ence be found?
2. why did christianity spread despite the danger?
3. what are the symbols and sacred book of christianity?
4. describe three sects of christianity.
5. what are the impacts of christianity on believers lives?

analysis

1. why do christians stress missionary work?
2. can you think of other religions which actively proselytize (attempt to convert)?
3. why is it terribly ironic that christians have been the most guilty (historically) of anti-semitism (anti-jewish acts & sentiment)?

Explanation:

1. Q12: Paul the Apostle (Saul of Tarsus) traveled across the Mediterranean, wrote epistles, and converted non-Jews, forming early Christian communities.
2. Q13: It offered hope to marginalized groups, had a unified message, and early believers shared resources, enduring persecution as a testament to their faith.
3. Q14: The Bible (Old and New Testaments) is the sacred book; key symbols include the cross, fish (Ichthys), and dove.
4. Q15: Roman Catholicism (led by the Pope, sacraments), Protestantism (reformed, Bible-focused), Eastern Orthodoxy (independent patriarchs, liturgical tradition).
5. Q16: It shapes moral frameworks, community involvement, daily prayer/worship, and life milestones (baptism, marriage).
6. Q17: Rooted in the "Great Commission" (Matthew 28:19-20), to spread Jesus' teachings globally.
7. Q18: Islam (da'wah) and Mormonism (LDS Church) actively proselytize to new followers.
8. Q19: Jesus and his disciples were Jewish; Christian teachings are rooted in Jewish scripture, making anti-Jewish actions contradictory to their faith's origins.

Answer:

1. Q12: Paul the Apostle; his influence is found in the New Testament epistles and early Christian communities across the Eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor.
2. Q13: It offered inclusive hope, shared community support, and a compelling, unified spiritual message.
3. Q14: Sacred book: The Christian Bible (Old Testament + New Testament). Symbols: Cross, Ichthys (fish), dove.
4. Q15:

• Roman Catholicism: Hierarchical church led by the Pope, seven sacraments, traditional liturgy.
• Protestantism: Diverse denominations (e.g., Lutheran, Baptist) that reject papal authority, emphasize scripture alone.
• Eastern Orthodoxy: Independent regional patriarchates, ornate liturgy, focus on tradition and icons.

1. Q16: It guides ethical behavior, fosters tight-knit religious communities, structures daily spiritual practices, and marks key life events with religious rituals.
2. Q17: It stems from the biblical Great Commission, which calls believers to spread Jesus' teachings to all nations.
3. Q18: Islam (through da'wah, inviting others to the faith) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism) actively proselytize.
4. Q19: Christianity originated within Judaism, with Jesus and all early followers being Jewish, so anti-Semitic actions contradict the faith's Jewish roots and core calls for love of neighbor.