SUMMARIZED IN 3 PARAGRAPHS
(for those with open minds, you’re welcome. For those not, your unwitting disdain is expected)
The Romans, particularly the Flavian dynasty, crafted Christianity as a tool for political control, aimed at pacifying rebellious Jewish populations and unifying the diverse cultures within their empire. The destruction of Jerusalem during the Jewish-Roman wars (66-73 CE) provided the context for this manipulation. The Flavians, particularly Vespasian and his son Titus, sought to establish themselves as fulfillers of Jewish Messianic prophecy. By aligning their rule with religious symbols and narratives, including those found in the Gospels, they positioned themselves as divine saviors or “Messiahs.” Evidence such as parallels between the New Testament and the writings of Jewish historian Josephus, coins depicting symbols later adopted by early Christians, and the shared use of imagery such as anchors and dolphins are presented as physical and literary proof of Roman influence in the creation of Christianity.
The Gospels were deliberately written to reshape Jewish Messianic expectations from a militant, nationalist figure to a pacifist, obedient “Son of God,” whose teachings aligned with Roman authority. For example, passages such as Romans 13, which encourage submission to the government, and the Sermon on the Mount’s message of turning the other cheek are seen as key examples of this propaganda. Additionally, early Christian symbols, such as the fish and anchor, trace back to Flavian coinage and propaganda, reinforcing the connection between Roman power and the emerging religion. By transforming Judaism’s exclusivist nationalism into a universal and politically submissive faith, the Romans effectively used Christianity to integrate diverse populations under their rule while neutralizing Jewish resistance.
Furthermore, Christianity’s success as a state-sponsored religion stemmed from its adaptability and its ability to serve as a political tool for subsequent rulers, such as Constantine, who made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. Over time, Christianity evolved into an institution that reflected and reinforced the authority of the state. This “invention” of Christ not only pacified ancient populations but also set the foundation for a religion that shaped Western history, art, and morality for centuries.
Understanding Christianity’s historical origins is essential for re-evaluating its doctrines in the context of the modern world.
Courtesy Nico Rocco