Blui

In some of the argument for the Christian religion, it's said that the speed of which Christianity became widespread implies mythology/historical accuracy (ive heard it argued both ways) especially pertaining to Jesus.

So has there been any research or studies or anything done to examine some examples of this? ive thought perhaps scientology would be a good pick, seeing as how its a relative newcomer and incorporates some beliefs that are not really any adaptation of mainstream religious beliefs.

hatsoff

Islam was widespread within a decade or two of its inception, right? And Mormonism? Scientology was a relatively quick bloomer, although in this information age that may not be the best example. Christianity seems to have gained popularity fairly slowly, in comparison to those.

Diogenes the Cynic

I don't know why apologists always want to throw this out there? I'm unaware of any evidence that Christianity was anything other than one obscure cult among many until Constantine.

hatsoff

The evidence I've seen seems to contradict that idea. Paul's authentic letters testify to multiple churches from Palestine to Greece and Rome as early as the mid-50s AD. In the 90s Domitian began widespread persecution, an action which requires the existence of a widespread Christian community. By the early second century churches had expanded to northern Africa and to the East. It seems like Christianity was a booming success long before Constantine.

Berthold

How about UFOlogy, alien abduction, diet fashions, beauty ideals, quackeries...

Katastrophikus

And how about how fast Eastern philosophies and ideas have spread in the West: Qi, Qi Cong, Zen, Bhuddism, Karma, Reincarnation, yoga, etc.?

We're talking full acceptance in less than a century.

Toto

Rodney Stark wrote a book on this subject. It answers your question as well as it can be answered. The Rise of Christianity.

And from here: "Evidence for persecution of Christians during the reign of Domitian is slim. "

David B

Pretty damn fast seems to be the answer.

I'd suggest that cargo cults are a good example.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cargo_cults

David B

Clivedurdle

Don't teach anyone anthropology here!!

Ezkerraldean

yes! John Frum!

it shows perfectly how people try to explain things that are beyond their control and understanding. the cargo cults are a modern small-scale example of the abrahamic religions.