Introduces the origins of Christianity beginning with the figure of Jesus and his portrayal in early Christian writings. Studies the early teachings and their influence on later Christian theological understanding of the nature of Jesus through readings in the New Testament. Also explores the historical development of Christianity from its origins in Palestine beginning 1 B.C.E. through its expansion into the Roman Empire and ending at the schism between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Western Catholic Church in the 1054 C.E.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
This course explores the development of Christianity and its influence on the Roman pagan world as it moved from a small Jewish cult into a world religion.
- The political and religious conflicts faced by Jews living in a Greco-Roman world.
- The Jewish longing for a messianic deliverer, and how this is reflected in the teachings of Jesus.
- The impact of the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem on Judaism and early Jesus followers.
- The message and meaning of The Synoptic Gospels.
- The influence of Paul and early pagan believers.
- The theological conflicts between Peter and Paul.
- The evolution of basic Christian theology.
- The early Christian theologies that thrived, died, or survived.
- How did paganism influence Christianity?
- The final adoption of Christianity as the state religion.
- The growing rift between the Latin West and Greek East.
- The final break between Eastern Orthodoxy and the Western Latin Church.
- Evaluate the religious conflicts facing Jews, and early Jesus followers.*
- Compare and contrast the differing ideals held by Jews and Christians concerning a messianic deliverer.
- Evaluate the impact of the destruction of the Jewish Temple.*
- Compare and contrast the similarities and differences in the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke.
- Describe the influence of Paul on the development of early Christianity.
- Summarize the conflicts between Peter and Paul.*
- Compare and contrast early Christianities.*
- Explain the reasons for adoption of Christianity by the Roman Empire as the state religion.
- Analyze pagan influences on Christianity.*
- Explain the reasons for the break between the Eastern Orthodox church and the Western Latin church.
Assessment and Requirements
Each instructor will identify appropriate methods to assess the achievement of the learning objectives for the course. Such methods could include objective style tests, essays, research papers, journals, and/or projects.
Outcomes
- Humanities and Fine Arts
- Civil Society and Culture - U.S. and Global
- Humanities
- Category 5: Humanities and Fine Arts
Credit for Prior College-Level Learning
Determined by department