Early Church (Wheaton Hero p. 138-142)

Historical Figures

100

This apostle was crucified upside down in AD 67. (Page 139)

Peter

200

This companion of Paul was accused of "wrecking the economy" in Ephesus. (Page 138)

Timothy

300

This Roman historian wrote about the expulsion of Jews from Rome under Emperor Claudius. (Page 139)  

Suetonius

400

This apostle was beheaded in Rome and was a key figure in spreading Christianity. (Page 139)  

Paul

500

This disciple of Jesus died of old age on the island of Patmos. (Page 139)  

John

Roman Architecture

100

This Roman structure was built to honor all gods and has a famous hole in its dome. (Page 141)  

Pantheon

200

This massive amphitheater could seat over 50,000 people and was built by Jewish slaves. (Page 141)  

Colosseum

300

The Colosseum had this many gates, allowing quick entry and exit. (Page 141)  

84

400

This Roman emperor built the modern version of the Pantheon in 120 AD. (Page 141)  

Emperor Hadrian

500

The Colosseum could be filled with water to reenact these types of battles. (Page 141)

sea battles

Early Church Events

100

This event in 49 AD led to the expulsion of Jews from Rome under Emperor Claudius. (Page 139)

the disturbance caused by Christians

200

This Roman emperor blamed Christians for the fire that destroyed Rome. (Page 139)

Nero

300

This apostle was stoned to death in Jerusalem in AD 65. (Page 139)

James the Less

400

This event in Athens involved Paul debating with Epicurean and Stoic philosophers.

the Sermon on Mars Hill

500

This Roman emperor held games in the Colosseum that lasted 123 days and resulted in the deaths of 10,000 gladiators. (Page 141)  

Trajan

Biblical Locations

100

This city was known for its temple of Artemis and was a key location in Paul’s missionary journeys. (Page 138)

Ephesus

200

This hill in Athens was where Paul delivered his famous sermon about the "unknown god." (Page 142)

Mars Hill

300

This city was the location of the palace where Paul was held prisoner. (Page 140)

Caesarea

400

This island is where John, the disciple of Jesus, died of old age. (Page 139)

Patmos

500

This Roman structure was built to honor all gods and has a famous hole in its dome. (Page 141)

the Pantheon

Higher-Order Thinking

100

Why might Suetonius’ account of the expulsion of Jews from Rome be considered significant for understanding early Christianity? (Page 139)  

It provides an unbiased, non-Christian perspective on early Christian activities.

200

How did the Roman Colosseum reflect the values and priorities of Roman society? (Page 141)

It showcased Roman engineering, entertainment, and the value placed on public spectacles and control.

300

What does Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill reveal about his approach to spreading Christianity in a polytheistic society? (Page 142)

He used cultural references (like the "unknown god") to connect with his audience and introduce Christian teachings.

400

How might the persecution of early Christians, as described in the text, have actually helped spread Christianity? (Page 139)

Persecution often led to martyrdom, which inspired others and demonstrated the strength of their faith.

500

In what ways did the Roman Empire’s infrastructure (e.g., roads, trade routes) facilitate the spread of Christianity? (Page 140)

The Roman Empire’s extensive network allowed for easier travel and communication, helping missionaries like Paul spread their message.