Dan Snow's History Hit How and Why History: The Spread of Christianity
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Jul 14, 2020 
Miri Rubin, a Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History at Queen Mary University, delves into the fascinating spread of Christianity following Jesus’ crucifixion. She discusses the early persecution faced by followers and how Christianity's teachings resonated across the sociocultural landscape of the Roman Empire. Rubin examines the blend of Christian doctrine with Germanic warrior culture during the empire's decline and highlights early medieval figures like Charles the Great, showcasing how faith shaped political structures and social dynamics.
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Christianity's Eastern Mediterranean Origin
- Christianity emerged primarily in the Greek-speaking eastern Mediterranean within the Roman Empire.
- It initially spread from areas like Palestine, Egypt, and Turkey before reaching other parts of the empire including Rome.
Early Christian Outreach Strategy
- Christianity initially spread among Jews throughout the Roman Empire before expanding to Gentiles.
- Paul's mission aimed at teaching non-Jews, offering growth beyond the limited Jewish follower base.
Radical Christian Beliefs Emerge
- The belief in God incarnate as Jesus was revolutionary and sparked centuries of theological debate.
- This concept of a flesh-and-blood Messiah who died and resurrected offered a radical new spirituality.