Loading...

Lesson 2: The Origins and Spread of Christianity — Practice Questions

  1. 1. After the Roman Empire took control of Judea in 63 B.C.E., how did many Jewish people feel about the new government?

    • A. They were pleased with the stability Roman soldiers provided.
    • B. They were unhappy and wished to govern themselves again.
    • C. They were indifferent as long as their trade routes were protected.
    • D. They welcomed the Romans for introducing new technologies.
  2. 2. What major political event occurred in Judea in 63 B.C.E.?

    • A. The kingdom was divided.
    • B. A new temple was built.
    • C. It came under Roman rule.
    • D. A Jewish king was elected.
  3. 3. The prophecies of a special leader, or Messiah, gave many Jews hope that this figure would arrive to do what?

    • A. Negotiate a trade deal.
    • B. Build a new city.
    • C. Free them from Roman rule.
    • D. Lead a voyage to new lands.
  4. 4. According to Jewish prophecies during the time of Roman rule, what was the expected role of the Messiah?

    • A. To become a wealthy merchant and improve the economy.
    • B. To serve as a high priest in the Roman government.
    • C. To act as a savior who would free the people from foreign rule.
    • D. To write new laws that would be acceptable to the emperor.
  5. 5. What was the main reason that the hope for a Messiah grew so strong among the Jewish people in Judea?

    • A. A period of great economic prosperity made people optimistic.
    • B. The Roman emperor encouraged all religions to find a leader.
    • C. It was a response to the hardship and loss of independence under Roman rule.
    • D. Neighboring kingdoms had recently been liberated by similar figures.
  6. 6. Why did Roman authorities often punish early Christians?

    • A. They refused to pay taxes to the empire.
    • B. They would not serve in the Roman army.
    • C. They refused to worship the Roman gods.
    • D. They tried to create their own separate territory.
  7. 7. What was the most significant change for Christians that resulted from Emperor Constantine's actions in 313 CE?

    • A. The Bible was first written down.
    • B. The official persecution of Christians ended.
    • C. All Roman citizens were required to become Christian.
    • D. The church was given control over the Roman army.
  8. 8. What major event caused Emperor Constantine to change his attitude towards Christianity?

    • A. He had a dream about the life of Jesus.
    • B. He believed the Christian God helped him win a critical battle.
    • C. A group of Christian leaders persuaded him to convert.
    • D. He wanted to unite the eastern and western parts of the empire.
  9. 9. Which statement accurately describes the status of Christianity in the Roman Empire by the year 380 CE?

    • A. It was still a minor religion practiced in secret.
    • B. It was one of many equally tolerated faiths.
    • C. It had become the official state religion of the empire.
    • D. It was legal but not actively supported by emperors.
  10. 10. The primary reason Roman leaders viewed Christians' refusal to worship their gods as a problem was because it was seen as an act of:

    • A. economic rebellion.
    • B. social isolation.
    • C. political disloyalty.
    • D. cultural ignorance.