Final answer:
Christianity's message appealed especially to the poor and oppressed, offering spiritual equality and hope of salvation. Despite persecution, its inclusive nature led to its spread within the Roman Empire and ultimately altered Roman social structure and religion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire
The teachings of Jesus and the message of Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire because they appealed especially to the poor and oppressed. Jesus' teachings offered a new, peaceful, and inclusive religion that promised forgiveness, love, and eternal life after death. This message resonated with many who were marginalized in Roman society, including slaves who found hope in the Christianity's promise of salvation and spiritual equality. The early Christian church growth was notable in its disregard for the rigid Roman social hierarchy and its focus on loving one's neighbor, even if they occupied a lower social rank. This inclusive approach, combined with a strict monotheism and an evangelical nature, set Christianity apart and allowed it to gain a following among diverse groups within the empire.
Ultimately, the spread of Christianity altered Roman society, challenging the Roman hierarchical structure and religious practices. Despite periods of intense persecution, including under Emperors like Nero and Diocletian, Christianity eventually found acceptance, especially after Emperor Constantine's conversion and the subsequent Edict of Milan in 313 CE, which granted religious tolerance for Christianity.