Chapter 10 Section 2

The Christian Church

The First Christians

• Jesus’ disciples spread Christianity• Apostles set up churches• Most important – Paul and Peter

A Growing Faith

• Christianity attracted followers– Safe to travel during Pax Romana– Connected with the poor and powerless– Connected people with a caring group

A Growing Faith (cont.)

• Romans viewed Christianity as a threat• Christians were persecuted• Many Christians became martyrs• 312 – Constantine accepted Christianity• 392 – Theodosius made Christianity Rome’s

official religion

The Early Church Hierachy

A.D. 600 – Pope becomes head of the Church