Greco-Roman Background Archives - History of Christianity

The Development of Platonism and Its Influence on Christianity

February 1, 2025February 1, 2025 Stephen Bedard No Comments

Platonism, the philosophical system founded by Plato in the 4th century BCE, has had a profound impact on Western thought. Its influence extends beyond philosophy into theology, particularly in Christianity. Over time, Platonism evolved into Middle Platonism and later Neoplatonism, with each phase contributing significant ideas that shaped Christian theology. Classical Platonism Plato (c. 427–347 … Read More “The Development of Platonism and Its Influence on Christianity” »

What Was Crucifixion Like?

February 8, 2022February 8, 2022 Stephen Bedard No Comments

Greco-Roman Background

Today, the cross is the symbol of Christianity. But crucifixion was not unique to Jesus. The Romans regularly used crucifixion as a way to execute people of a certain cross. How did crucifixion fit into the wider historical context? In this episode of the Emperors of Rome podcast, Gillian Shepherd shares about crucifixion from a … Read More “What Was Crucifixion Like?” »

One God: Pagan Monotheism in the Roman Empire

June 22, 2020June 22, 2020 Stephen Bedard No Comments

Christianity emerged out of Judaism and borrow many of its concept of God. You can find this post regarding a book that investigates monotheism in Judaism and Christianity. But how did the Christian concept of God relate to pagan thought? One God: Pagan Monotheism in the Roman Empire is a book that looks at a … Read More “One God: Pagan Monotheism in the Roman Empire” »

Was Christianity a Mystery Religion?

October 7, 2017August 6, 2020 Stephen Bedard No Comments

Greco-Roman Background

It is very common to find claims that Christianity was a mystery religion, similar to the worship of Dionysus, Isis, Orpheus, etc. I do not deny that there are some similarities. Christianity emerged and grew at a time when mystery religions were popular throughout the Roman Empire. Mystery religions were seen as more vibrant than … Read More “Was Christianity a Mystery Religion?” »

Five Historical Reasons Why Christianity Spread So Quickly

September 29, 2017August 15, 2020 Stephen Bedard No Comments

Greco-Roman Background

Christians can explain the rapid spread of Christianity with theological reasons. Related but distinct from that are the historical reasons why Christianity was able to be successful. I see five reasons that helped Christianity to ultimately take over the Roman Empire. Jewish Diaspora – During the Second Temple period, Jews were dispersed throughout the Mediterranean … Read More “Five Historical Reasons Why Christianity Spread So Quickly” »