life
...B. The fish symbol appeared on many graves 1. Although the Romans controlled most of the areas Christianity was spreading. Latin was not the most common language because Alexander the Great had conquered the same area centuries before. Thus we must look to the Greek language to find the meaning 2. It was first started by an Alexandrian Greek who discovered the Acrostic in Greek for the word fish, Ichthus, in the year 150 BC. Transition: During the early years of Christianity the fish symbol became one of the most important symbols in the Christian faith 2. Reasons for importance of the Fish symbol and its spread A. Many pagans referred to themselves as “Sons of God” 1. Christian were reminded as who was the true son of God was 2. Plus Ichthus was kind of a political protest against the kings B. The fish was a simple symbol to draw 1. It could be drawn easily with two simple arcs 2. It could also be erased in a second C. Christianity was an illegal religion, and many practice in secret for fear of their lives 1. In the book of Acts Jewish authorities tried to stamp out the Christian church 2. In 64 AD, emperor Nero enjoyed burning Christians. He had Christian bon fires 3. Domitian made Christianity an illegal religion in 91 AD 4. Then the emperor Trajan gave Christian the choice of either denying there faith being put to death on the spot D. Christians used the fish a secret code to avoid persecution. 1. When a Christian meet a stranger they could draw a arc in the sand 2. Christian put fish signs on there houses, only other Christians understood Transition: There were also other reasons as to why the fish symbol became so significant among Christians 3. Jesus referred to and used Fish many times in his teachings, A. Mathew 12:40 Jesus said Jonah was in the belly of a...