WHI.7a - Origins, Beliefs, Traditions, Customs, and Spread of Christianity

The student will apply social science skills to understand the development of Christianity by

a) describing the origins, beliefs, traditions, customs, and spread of Christianity in time and place;

The followers of Jesus spread Christianity throughout the Roman Empire, presenting a powerful challenge to Roman polytheism.

Origins of Christianity

 Had its roots in Judaism

 Was led by Jesus of Nazareth, who was proclaimed the Messiah

 Conflicted with polytheistic beliefs of Roman Empire

Beliefs, traditions, and practices of Christianity

 Monotheism

 Jesus as both Son and incarnation of God

 Life after death

 New Testament, containing accounts of the life and teachings of Jesus, as well as writings of early Christians

 Christian doctrines established by early church councils

Spread of Christianity

 Popularity of the message

 Early martyrs inspired others

 Carried by the Apostles, including Paul, throughout the Roman Empire