1st century CE

Definition

The 1st century CE refers to the period from the year 1 to the year 100 in the Common Era. This century is significant for being the time when early Christianity began to emerge and spread across the Roman Empire, marking a transformative shift in religious beliefs and practices in the Mediterranean region.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 1st century CE saw the life, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, events that are foundational to Christian belief.
2. The writings of early Christian texts, including the Gospels, began to be produced during this century, laying the groundwork for the New Testament.
3. The spread of Christianity was facilitated by the Roman Empire's extensive road networks and relative peace known as Pax Romana, enabling missionaries like Paul to travel freely.
4. Persecution of Christians started in this century under Roman authorities, as they viewed the new religion as a threat to traditional Roman values and polytheism.
5. By the end of the 1st century CE, Christianity began transitioning from a sect within Judaism to a distinct religion with its own identity and practices.

Review Questions

• How did Jesus of Nazareth influence the development of early Christianity in the 1st century CE?
  • Jesus of Nazareth's teachings and actions formed the core of early Christian beliefs. His life and messages about love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God inspired his followers and led to the establishment of a community dedicated to spreading these ideas. The events surrounding his crucifixion and resurrection became central narratives that motivated his disciples to evangelize and share his message throughout the Roman Empire.
• Discuss how Paul of Tarsus contributed to the spread of Christianity during the 1st century CE.
  • Paul of Tarsus was instrumental in broadening the appeal of Christianity beyond its Jewish roots. He actively traveled throughout the Roman Empire, establishing churches and preaching to Gentiles. Paul's letters addressed specific communities and provided theological insights that shaped Christian doctrine, thus helping to create a cohesive identity for early believers while ensuring that Christianity reached diverse populations.
• Evaluate the role of the Roman Empire in shaping the early Christian movement during the 1st century CE.
  • The Roman Empire played a critical role in shaping early Christianity through its political stability, infrastructure, and cultural exchange. The Pax Romana allowed for safe travel across vast territories, which enabled missionaries like Paul to spread Christian teachings efficiently. However, the Roman authorities also viewed this new faith with suspicion, leading to periods of persecution that ultimately galvanized Christian communities and strengthened their resolve. This dynamic interaction between empire and emerging religion set the stage for Christianity's growth in subsequent centuries.

Related terms

Jesus of Nazareth: A Jewish preacher and religious leader whose teachings became the foundation of Christianity, believed by Christians to be the Son of God.

Paul of Tarsus: An apostle who played a crucial role in spreading Christianity beyond Jewish communities, emphasizing its appeal to Gentiles.

Roman Empire:

A vast empire that dominated much of Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia during the 1st century CE, providing a backdrop for the spread of early Christianity.