Christianity

2. A. Mythology - traditional stories dealing with the gods and heroes of a
particular people
B. Greek and Roman mythology was polytheistic - believing in more than
one god or goddesses.
C. Greek/Roman gods lived in the heavens, the earth, and the underworld.
D. People of Greece and Rome believe that their gods controlled all aspects
of their lives.

3. E. Roman mythology was adopted from Greek mythology.
1. Greek god = Zeus; Roman god = Jupiter
2. Greek god = Poseidon; Roman god = Neptune
3. Greek god = Aphrodite; Roman god = Venus
F. People built temples, made sacrifices, and prayed for assistance in
their lives.
G. Both believed in the afterlife but gave more attention to this life.
H. Mythology in the Roman Empire.
1. Conquered people by the Roman could continue to practice their
religion as long as it was not see as a threat to Roman rule.
2. Christianity was seen as a threat to the power of the
emperor’s rule.

4. A. Judaism is the basis of Christianity. Christianity grew
and is related to this religion.
B. Monotheism - Christians believe in one God.
C. Originally Christianity was seen as a threat to the
polytheism beliefs of the Roman Empire and to the power
of the emperor.

5. A. Jews are waiting for a savior known as a Messiah.
B. Christians believe that Jesus of Nazareth was
the Messiah.
C. Jesus is considered the founder of Christianity

6. A. Jesus had followers or 12 disciples (apostles) who helped Jesus spread his
teachings.
B. Jesus was considered a healer and prophet
C. He was considered the Son of God.
D. Jesus taught a message of love and devotion to God and all human beings.
E. Christians believe that Jesus died on the cross as a sacrifice to provide a
way to forgive mankind.
F. Christians believe that Jesus was resurrected from the dead so mankind
could be forgiven of their sins and have a relationship with God.
G. Christians believe that a life of good works reflects their relationship with
God.

7. A. The Bible contains the sacred writings of Christianity

8. A. Christianity was first spread beyond Jerusalem and Judea as Christians moved to
other areas to being persecuted for their beliefs by the Romans.
1. For a period of time, it was illegal to practice Christianity in the Roman Empire
and if caught could face punishment.
B. It spread throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean world due to the teaching
and preaching of Jesus, Peter, Paul, and the John the Apostle.
C. Christianity eventually became the official religion of the Roman Empire
under the emperor Constantine.
1. Christianity then spread to all parts of the empire.
2. It effected western culture and western civilization.
D. Today Christianity is predominately found on 3 continents: North America, South
America, and Europe
E. Today there are Christians found in most countries.