This course examines the origins of Christianity from its Jewish, Greek, and Roman influences and charts its development through the first one hundred years of its existence. Special emphases are placed on understanding the diversity of Judaic religious identity as well as the influence of Greek philosophy and religion. The world of Jesus, Paul, and the evolution of this new view of one's relationship to God are analyzed historically through a close examination of the texts of this time in the nexus of Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultural interaction. All students will write a book review, take two essay exams, and participate in regular discussion. Class participation is an expected component of this class and contributes 25% to the final grade for the course.