Early Christian Societies

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The survival of early Christian societies was far from guaranteed. There was aggression from governments and competition from other religions that sought to harm and eliminate Christianity. However, despite these obstacles, early Christian societies were able to survive and thrive in their first thousand years. When considering why Christianity survived, it is important to look at the myths, rituals and symbols of the religion, and relate them to the current social and political context at the time. Christianity survived because of the political-economy of the Roman Empire at the time, comparable weaknesses in competing religions, and the sense of community and lifestyle that Christianity fostered.
The political-economy of religion in the Roman Empire set up a unique environment for Christianity to progress. Rome was progressive in their religious tolerance and the government did little to control religions. Therefore, although the Romans were …show more content…
Christianity was able to exploit many of the weaknesses in Paganism to increase their membership and strengthen Christian societies. For example, Paganism was very mysterious and confusing, with lots of temples, and lavish feasts and ceremonies. On the other hand, the basic beliefs of Christianity were simple: If you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you will be accepted into the society and receive all the benefits including repentance and immortality. Furthermore, Paganism lacked the public reverence that Christianity excelled in. While Pagans believed that the Gods are incapable of loving humans, Christianity offered the myth of a person relationship with God, and the corresponding rituals to maintain this relationship. The eschatology of Christianity also engaged people, where the Son of Man, or God’s appointed agent, will appear at the end of time and fulfill God’s purpose on Earth. In order to receive these benefits, one had to join the Christian

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