The First Christians and the Fall of Rome

A major reason for the decline of the Roman Empire was what?

• continued acceptance of traditional religions

• the abolition of slavery throughout the Empire

• a series of military defeats in Africa

• political corruption and the instability of the government

The size of the Roman Empire made it difficult for the Romans to do what?

• foster trade relations between the different regions of the empire

• ensure effective government and adequate military protection for the entire empire

• establish a central capital city upon which everyone could agree

• continue to make cultural and technological innovations

Why was the size of the Roman Empire a problem that contributed to the empire's fall?

• The size made it hard to defend

• Many emperors were needed to rule

• Much of the empire was empty with no population

• Most of the empire was dry land that could not support growing food

Which of the following statements most closely describes the attitude of the Jewish people of Judaea toward Roman rule?

• They wanted to be more like the Romans.

• There were differing opinions about Roman rule.

• Most Jews wanted to violently overthrow Roman rule.

• They all believed that God would save them from the Romans.

Choose a characteristic of Christianity

• Sacrifices

• Monotheism

• Polytheism

• Theocracy

Which of the following statements describes an important concept in the Christian faith?

• "Be the change you want to see in the world."

• "Love your neighbor as yourself."

• "Make the most of what you have; it is later than you think."

• "An oppressive government is more to be feared than a tiger."

What was the central lesson that the apostle Paul taught about the crucifixion of Jesus?

• that he was the Savior and his death made up for the sins of all humans

• that he was innocent and his execution showed how cruel the Romans were

• hat it was unjust and his death was a reason to rebel against the Romans

• that it was painful and his death teaches us the value of suffering

What does the word Gospel mean?

• "the law"

• "good news"

• "promise"

• "salvation"

What did Paul mean when he said "Here there is no Greek or Jew …barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all and is in all?"

• that Greeks, Jews, and the other groups he listed would never believe in Christian teachings

• that all people are spiritually equal in Christianity, regardless of nationality, class, or race

• that only Greeks, Jews, and Scythians could become Christians

• that people had to be well-traveled to become a Christian

Romans began _______________Christians as threats to the Roman state. In response, Christianity continued to grow.

• persecuting

• liking

• having

• accepting