Beginnings of Christianity Chapter 9 lesson 4 notes

Beginnings of Christianity I. The Beginnings of Christianity A.Jesus was born in Bethlehem but grew up in Nazareth. B.In Greek Messiah means Christos C.Jesus Christ means Jesus the Messiah.

Bethlehem

Nazareth St. Joseph’s Church

Beginnings of Christianity II. Teachings of Jesus A.Jesus spent most of his time teaching people B.Jesus taught people to follow a moral code (love, charity, humility) C.Jesus had 12 apostles; these men Jesus had chosen to help him teach

12 Apostles

Beginnings of Christianity D.Rome became very troubled by the growing popularity of Jesus. The government feared he may become so popular that he might lead a rebellion. E.Jesus gained a great following wherever he went.  People came to hear him preach and watch miracles be performed.  His message of peace, love, and forgiveness attracted people from all different classes. F.The apostle, Judas Iscariot, betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

Beginnings of Christianity G.Jesus was arrested and sentenced to death by crucifixion  crucifixion- means “putting to death from a cross”  Rome punished many slaves, rebel leaders and others regarded as criminal this way  Judas Iscariot later tried to return the silver and then hanged himself.

H.The Bible tells us that Jesus arose three days after the crucifixion. Then he rejoined his apostles then ascended to heaven. I.The apostles helped spread the teachings of Jesus after his death

Beginnings of Christianity III. The spread of Christianity A.Christianity continued to grow and spread after Jesus’ death. B.Christians scattered all over the Roman Empire.  Churches were also set up throughout the empire. C.Rome became angry at Christians for not worshipping the emperors.

Beginnings of Christianity D. Early Christians were persecuted by Rome.  The persecution took several forms. Some were stoned, beheaded, dragged to death, stabbed, beaten, crucified, thrown to wild animals, burned or boiled alive. E.The spreading of Christianity continued and included people from all classes

Beginnings of Christianity F.Paul, not one of the 12 apostles, but a disciple or follower of Jesus from Tarsus, was at first against Christianity but later became one. He helped spread Christianity throughout the empire. G.Peter and Paul both helped to build the framework that would make Rome’s Christian community the largest in the empire. H.Peter is considered the first bishop of the Christian Church. Later the title was changed to Pope. I.Despite the continued violence against them the number of Christians continued to grow. J.Christianity finally became the official religion of the empire by 300 A.D.