XIV.Christianity
A. Palestine also gave rise to another religion- Christianity.
 The founder was Jesus, who was born during the time of the Roman rule in
Bethlehem.
 He started to preach about God’s goodness and mercy.
 Jewish prophets had predicted that a messiah would deliver the Jews from
foreign rule and restore the Kingdom of Israel.
 Many believed that Jesus was the messiah.
Messiah –
One who is anointed by God.
B. Why did the Jewish and Roman leaders reject the idea that Jesus was
the messiah?
He opposed the traditional laws and did not accept
that the Emperor was a god.
C. In 33 CE, Jesus was arrested and sentenced to die by crucifixion. He was
nailed to a wooden cross and left to die of exposure.
Then Rose from the Dead 2 days later… Resurrection!
What is
Lent & Ash Wednesday
all about???
•
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3L3c23MfC0
D. There were similarities between Judaism and Christianity.
Monotheism
10 Commandments
E. There was also special emphasis on certain beliefs within both religions.
1. Love for God and compassion for all people.
2. Forgiving God who is the father of all people.
3. Merciful, humble and unselfish people would be rewarded with eternal life.
4. Parables – Short stories with a simple moral lesson.
F. The followers of Jesus also believed that he was the SON OF GOD.

His teachings (New Testament) are combined with the Old
Testament (Torah) to form the Bible, the Christian Holy book.

The new religion spread throughout the Roman world. The missionaries
benefited from the good roads and peaceful conditions of Roman rule. Also,
the Romans generally tolerated diverse religious beliefs. They however, did
look upon the Christians with suspicion because they refused to show respect
the Roman gods. Because of this, they were often persecuted. In 313
CE, Roman Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity and
ended the persecution.
G. Why did Christianity appeal to many people?
1. Offered hope and salvation.
2. Each person could achieve salvation through moral choices.
3. All followers are equal.
G. Different Types of Christianity
Protestantism in the US
Catholicism in the US
Christianity
Orthodox
Protestant
Baptist
RELIGIOUS LANDSCAPE OF THE U.S- http://religions.pewforum.org/affiliations