The Growth of Early Christianity

Christianity underwent significant transformation in its first century, especially in its growth and diversity a hundred years after Jesus' death. Initially a small group of apocalyptic Jews, by 130 CE, it had spread throughout the Roman Empire, though estimates suggest only about 20,000 to 30,000 individuals identified as Christians at that point. This period saw a fragmentation of beliefs and practices, with various sects emerging, some adhering to Jewish law, while others started to redefine their spiritual identity separate from Judaism. This diversity laid the groundwork for future theological debates and conflicts as Christianity continued to evolve.