Christianity Chapter 6, Section 2

Who were the early Christians? The first Christians had been Jews. These Jews chose to follow a man named Jesus who called himself the Son of God. The Jews who believed Jesus was the Messiah became Christians, those who did not remained Jews.

Jesus of Nazareth Christianity is based on the teachings of Jesus, a Jew who according to the Bible was born to Mary (a virgin) and Joseph her husband. Jesus began teaching when he was 30 years old, and gained many followers especially among the poor. He promised them a better life to come. He also performed miracles.

The Crucifixion Jesus made many enemies among religious and political leaders. They feared his growing influence, and so they arrested him. Jesus was tried and sentenced to death by crucifixion (to be hung from a cross). He was 33 years old.

Resurrection According to the Bible, Jesus was buried and then rose from the dead after 3 days. He visited among his disciples telling them how to pass on his teachings. Then he went to Heaven. Christians believe he is the Messiah

Followers of Jesus Jesus had twelve Apostles whom he chose to receive his special teachings during his life. Some of these men wrote accounts of this time. Those accounts are called the Gospels.

The Spread of Christianity Paul is the most important person in the spread of Christianity. He was originally against Jesus. The early Christians were persecuted. The Romans banned Christianity and they had to practice in secret. They were often arrested and killed.

Constantine the Great Constantine (Roman Emperor) converted to Christianity and made it a legal religion. Christianity would eventually spread from Rome to the rest of the world.