Early Christian History and Faith Words

Early Christian History

• After Jesus' death, disciples lived a life patterned after Christ.
• The Torah, Hebrew laws, were passed on.
• Early Christians faced persecution from Roman authorities and societal discrimination.
• Resistance from Jewish leaders and communities was a challenge.
• The Council of Jerusalem, a meeting of early Christian leaders, addressed Gentile conversions.
• Christianity continued to grow and spread throughout the Roman Empire.
• Constantine, Roman Emperor, converted to Christianity and issued the Edict of Milan.
• Theodosius made Christianity the official state religion.

Faith Words

• Apologetics is the defense of faith.
• An apologist defends the faith.
• Epistles are letters to individuals or groups.
• Founders start institutions/organizations.
• Icons are important symbols.
• Judaism is the religion of Jewish people.
• Theology is the study of God.

St. Paul's Travels and Contributions

• St. Paul traveled to Jerusalem, Antioch, Cyprus, Asia Minor, Greece, and Rome.
• He started churches throughout these areas.

Hebrews 11:1

• Faith is the realization of hope and evidence of things unseen.

Suffering

• Suffering is defined as physical and mental anguish.
• Suffering reveals injustice and persecution.
• It's not part of God's plan; it's a consequence of human sin.
• Suffering can be meritorious for Christians.

Roman Persecution of Christians

• Early Christians faced persecution in the Roman Empire due to Christianity's monotheistic nature and new religious identity.
• Christians were persecuted for their dedication to Christ.

Persecution Timeline

• In 251, Emperor Decius required all individuals to sacrifice to the Gods or face death.
• The Edict of Milan in a proclamation that established religious tolerance for Christianity within the Roman Empire.