It is important to understand the historic background of Christianity. This is with respect to the spread of Christianity in the Roman and Jewish worlds. The concept of the New Testament in the Roman history came during the reign of Caesar. During this time most of the people in the Roman Empire were pagans. Most were influenced by supernaturalism and mystery religion. Christians and Jews also felt oppressed under the Roman rule .In the Jewish history, the New Testament was introduced during the Second Temple Period. This era was marked by the rebuilding of the temple of Jerusalem. During this era, Jesus lived in Palestine. He interacted mainly with the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Hellenism was prominent in this era, a factor which led to a variety of Judaism. The Hebrew Bible was also translated into Greek as a result of Hellenism.
It appears that Paganism had its roots deep into the lives of the Romans alongside other common notions. This explains the reason behind the late spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire. However, we still wonder why the Greco- Roman culture had so much influence to the spread of Christianity even as it was welcomed in the second century. On the other hand, thinking of the Jewish historical development of the New Testament, why did Jesus mainly talk to the Pharisees and the Sadducees? However, it is important to acknowledge the presence of the Samaritans and the Gentiles. Looking at both worlds, there were some standards that people had. For instance, honor and shame in the Roman world whereas purity and defilement was prominent in the Jewish world. Was it necessary to hold on to such standards? Understanding the cultures of these worlds may therefore help to understand the New Testament.
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