The Early Christian Church emerged in the 1st century AD, following the teachings of Jesus Christ and the efforts of his apostles. Initially, it was a small community of believers in the Roman Empire, often meeting in private homes. The church focused on spreading the message of Christianity, emphasizing love, forgiveness, and salvation. As the church grew, it faced persecution from Roman authorities, leading to the establishment of a more organized structure. Key figures like Saint Peter and Saint Paul played significant roles in spreading Christianity beyond Jewish communities. By the 4th century, the church gained legal recognition, paving the way for its influence in Western civilization.