The document discusses how Christianity started and gained appeal in the Roman Empire during a time of decline. It summarizes key aspects of early Christianity that contrasted with Roman values and beliefs, such as emphasizing human dignity and equality over imperial power, compassion for the poor and oppressed, and rejection of practices like gladiatorial games. This led Romans to view Christians as threatening the unity and traditions of the empire through their non-worship of Roman gods and refusal to participate in the emperor cult.