In Stone and Story

Early Christianity in the Roman World

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Chapter

Chapter 6: Peace & Security

Class Activities

Prior to the class on chapter 6 of In Stone and Story, ask students to bring to this class instances of modern messages that are politically or socially subversive. Have students discuss how are they similar or different to subversive messages we find in the ancient world.


Discussion Questions

  1. How did claims of Roman peace and security relate to claims of the early Jesus-movement? How were they similar? How were they different? Why do some New Testament texts appear to push back against some of these Roman imperial claims?
  2. Our author provides an example of an oath of commitment to the Roman imperial family (page 72). What might a Jesus-follower think of such an oath?