Christianity and the Roman Empire

This lecture explores the origins and spread of Christianity within the context of the Roman Empire. It begins with an overview of major world religions, highlighting Christianity's roots in Judaism. The lecture discusses the Pax Romana and the Roman Empire's expansion, setting the stage for Jesus of Nazareth's life and the birth of Christianity. It examines the differences between Christianity and Judaism, the persecution of Christians by the Romans, and the eventual legalization and adoption of Christianity as the state religion under Emperor Constantine. The lecture concludes with the decline of the Roman Empire and the rise of the Church as a moral authority.

Which religion is considered the first monotheistic faith?

• Christianity

• Judaism

• Hinduism

• Buddhism

What was the Pax Romana?

• The fall of the Roman Empire

• A war between Rome and Greece

• A period of peace and prosperity in the Roman Empire

• The spread of Christianity

Who is considered the founder of Christianity?

• Augustus Caesar

• Moses

• Paul

• Jesus of Nazareth

How does Christianity differ from Judaism?

• Christianity recognizes Jesus as the Son of God

• Christianity is polytheistic

• Christianity originated in India

• Christianity does not believe in life after death

What was the Roman Empire's initial reaction to Christianity?

• They embraced it immediately

• They ignored it

• They persecuted Christians

• They made it the state religion

Who legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire?

• Nero

• Julius Caesar

• Constantine

• Caligula

What role did the church play as the Roman Empire declined?

• It dissolved

• It moved to Greece

• It became a source of moral authority

• It led military campaigns

Who refused to become the pope, leading to the establishment of the papacy?

• Constantine

• Emperor Gratian

• Theodosius I

• Augustus Caesar

What was outlawed in 391 CE in the Roman Empire?

• The use of Latin

• Worshiping Roman gods

• Trade with Asia

• Christianity

Who is the current head of the Roman Catholic Church?

• Pope Francis

• Pope Leo

• Pope Benedict

• Pope John Paul