Misquoting Jesus with Bart Ehrman How did Christianity take over the Roman World?
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Aug 15, 2023 Discussing Christianity's growth in the Roman world, the podcast explores the exclusivity and evangelism that set it apart from traditional beliefs. It challenges theories on Christianity's rise, revealing the controversial origins of the New Testament Gospels. A scholar presents connections between the Old Testament and Gospel of Matthew, while discussions touch upon authors' personal faith transitions and misconceptions about leaving the Christian faith. The episode dives into Christianity's triumph in the Roman world, attributing it to evangelistic efforts and belief in the supremacy of their God.
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Henotheism Eased Monotheism Acceptance
- Henotheism allowed worshippers to focus on a single god while acknowledging others existed.
- Christians' claim of one superior God resonated with existing henotheistic beliefs in the Roman world.
Christianity’s Unique Missionary Zeal
- Pagan religions did not practice evangelism or missionary conversion.
- Christianity's missionary zeal was unique and focused on converting people exclusively to their faith.
Exclusivity Fueled Growth
- Christianity insisted on exclusive worship of their God, unlike pagan religions.
- This exclusivity meant every Christian convert reduced pagan adherents, accelerating Christianity's growth.