Ecclesia

Lecture 1 Ephesus: The Dawn of Christianity

A cultural clash as great as that between Pharaoh and Moses occurs in the Roman Empire in the 1st century. Many today believe the clash was between Jews and Christians. However, the disagreements between some Jewish sects and the Jews who believed in Jesus was a mere disagreement in comparison to the clash with Greco-Roman culture. What impact did this culture have upon Christianity's development? This is a topic upon which Dr. Alexander (Sasha) Bolotnikov applies his expertise.

Lecture 2 Spread of Christianity

Was Paul a radical intent on destroying Judaism after his conversion? Or was his mission in harmony with his Jewish heritage? Dr. Alexander Bolotnikov uncovers the historical facts behind how Christian communities sprang up across the Roman empire. Paul's mission comes into focus within the culture of the Jewish diaspora. Without understanding the opposing Pharisaic views to how gentiles could become Jews, it is easy to reach inaccurate conclusions.

Lecture 3 Smyrna: The Parting of Ways

What happened when Christianity became tired of being different and being persecuted? Dr. Bolotnikov explains the significance of the destruction of the Temple and how persecution arose for both Jews and Christians because of their common rejection of emperor worship.