Rome and Christianity

Main Ideas Romans generally practiced religious tolerance, but they came into conflict with the Jews. A new religion, Christianity, grew out of Judaism Jesus of Nazareth, who preached about salvation, love for God, and kindness was seen as the Messiah by many. Christianity grew in popularity and eventually became the sole religion allowed in the Roman Empire.

Religious Tolerance and Conflict Rome conquered Judea, the homeland of most Jews, in 63 BC. Roman leaders banned a religion only if there were political problems. Some Romans felt the Jewish belief in one god insulted their gods. Bud Judaism was not banned at first. The Jews wanted to be free, so they rebelled. In the end, Rome sacked the capital Jerusalem and forced the Jews to scatter.

Quick Question… Why do you think the Romans usually chose to tolerate the religions of conquered peoples?

A New Religion At the start of the first century AD, a new religion appeared. Christianity had roots in Judaism, but it was based on the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth. At this time there were several Jewish groups. The largest group that followed Moses’ laws very strictly to ensure that a savior would appear. This savior was called the Messiah, which means “God’s chosen one.” When Judea had fallen, many Jews felt the Messiah would come soon.

Quick Question … Why do you think the Messiah was so important for the Jews who were living in Judea under Roman rule?

Jesus of Nazareth was born at the end of the first century BC. Much of what we know about Jesus is from the Bible, the holy book of Christianity. Jesus was born in Bethlehem to a woman named Mary. Christians believe that God was Jesus’ father. When Jesus was about 30, he began to travel and teach. Roman leaders thought his teachings challenged their authority. Jesus was arrested and executed by crucifixion. Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead. This is called the Resurrection. Many of Jesus’ disciples claimed to see him again.

Jesus taught that people should love God and each other. Jesus also taught about salvation. Jesus chose 12 disciples, the Apostles, to spread his teachings. However, another man, Paul of Tarses, was most important in Christianity. Paul traveled and wrote letters explaining Christianity. He helped Christianity break away from Judaism.

Quick Question … Do you think modern leaders who say they are Christians act with Jesus’ teachings in mind? Why or why not? Provide examples to support your opinion.

The Growth of Christianity As Christianity became more popular, Roman leaders began to worry. Christians began preaching to Jews and non-Jews. Some local leaders arrested and killed Christians. These martyrs died for their religious beliefs. Some Roman emperors outlawed Christianity and persecuted Christians. In the early 300’s, emperor Constantine became a Christian and removed the bans on Christians. Later Christianity became the official religion of Rome.

Quick Question … Why do you think the early Christians were slow to offer their message to non-Jews?

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