Question

overview
the romans took control of judah and turned it into a roman province called judaea. many jews hoped that a messiah would help them win back their freedom from the romans. jesus of nazareth preached of gods love and forgiveness. roman authorities thought jesus was a political rebel, and they crucified him. jesus life and his disciples report of his resurrection led to a new religion called christianity. the religion attracted many followers because it gave meaning to peoples lives, appealed to their emotions, and promised happiness after death. the religion also gave people the chance to be a part of a caring group and provided women with new roles. the roman government persecuted christians. people who were willing to die rather than give up their religion became martyrs.
eventually, christianity became the official religion of the roman empire. early christians set up a church organization ruled by a hierarchy. under this organization, church leaders became known as the clergy, and the regular church members became known as the laity. as the church grew, the bishop of rome was given the title of pope.
monks and nuns played important roles in the spread of christianity. they established monasteries and convents and served as missionaries, teaching their religion to nonbelievers. as christianity continued to spread, christians founded new communities and spread their faith to various parts of europe.
focus questions
after learning about christianitys founding and growth, think about these essential questions:

1. how did christianity become established within the roman empire?
2. what are the essential beliefs of early christian faith?
3. how did christianity spread?
4. what was the impact of early church on the roman empire?

Explanation:

1. Christianity initially faced persecution as Roman authorities saw Jesus as a threat. However, its message of love, forgiveness, and life - after - death appealed to many. Over time, despite persecution, the number of followers grew. Eventually, it became the official religion of the Roman Empire, likely due to political and social factors, such as the influence of Christian emperors.
2. Early Christian faith centered around the belief in Jesus as the son of God, his crucifixion and resurrection, and the promise of eternal life. The teachings of love, forgiveness, and the coming of the kingdom of God were also essential.
3. Christianity spread through the efforts of missionaries like monks and nuns who established monasteries and convents and taught non - believers. The growth of the church hierarchy and the establishment of local communities also contributed to its spread across Europe.
4. The early Church had a significant impact on the Roman Empire. It influenced social structures, as seen in the roles it provided for women. It also had political implications, eventually becoming the state religion, which likely led to changes in laws and governance.

Answer:

1. Initially persecuted, its message attracted followers, and it became the state religion due to various factors including imperial influence.
2. Belief in Jesus as the son of God, his crucifixion, resurrection, and eternal life; teachings of love and forgiveness.
3. Through missionaries, establishment of religious institutions, and growth of local communities.
4. Influenced social structures (e.g., women's roles) and had political implications (became state religion, influenced laws/governance).