1. Get your 12 tables activity out to discuss
Welcome!

2. Rise of Christianity
Romans paid little attention to Christianity at first then began to see it as a threat to society
Persecution of Christians began under Emperor Nero around 64 A.D.
Nero blamed Christians for turmoil occurring in Rome. He subjected them to cruel deaths
Persecution strengthened Christianity forcing it to become more organized

3. Roman Acceptance of Christianity
Christianity grew because it was more appealing to the poor because it viewed everyone as equal
Viewed Christianity as having a better life and the unity of the Roman empire also eased the work of missionaries
Why would the poor be looking for something including equality?
Found comfort in the words of Jesus and a promised better life
Better life: The unity of the Roman Empire made it easier for missionaries to travel and spread the word of Christianity

4. Roman Acceptance of Christianity
Diocletian was the last major emperor to enforce persecution of Christians.
Constantine =first Christian Emperor from A.D. He issued Edict of Milan that tolerated Christianity in Rome
Theodosius the Great = adopted Christianity as official religion in 380 A.D.