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Early Christian Communities ~CE 200. In the first three centuries (CE) Christianity grew from a small, persecuted group into a widespread religious faith of the Roman Empire. How? These factors contributed to the spread of Christianity:.
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In the first three centuries (CE) Christianity grew from a small, persecuted group into a widespread religious faith of the Roman Empire. How?These factors contributed to the spread of Christianity: • Christianity appealed to the poor because it promised a better life after death. • Poor people were attracted to a faith that taught that all people were equal. • Poor also were attracted to Christian communities because they provided food, shelter, etc. • The founder of Christianity was an actual person whose life could be easily understood. • Missionaries spread the faith to distant lands. (apostles—close friends/followers of Jesus, i.e. Peter and Paul) • Many Christians were persecuted; other Christians were inspired by the faith and courage of those who were mistreated. (Jesus himself + lives of the early martyrs)