Why were Christians persecuted in the Roman Empire?

Christians faced persecution in the Roman Empire primarily because they would not worship the Emperor, who was often deified and seen as a divine figure. This refusal was viewed as an act of defiance against the established social and political order. The Roman state religion emphasized the idea that loyalty to the Emperor was crucial for maintaining order and the favor of the gods. By not participating in these religious practices, Christians were seen as undermining the unity and stability of the Empire, which led to suspicion, hostility, and, ultimately, persecution.

The other options do not accurately reflect the main reason for the persecution. While tax issues could lead to tensions, and some Christians did express dissent, the foundational conflict centered on the refusal to honor the Emperor as a god. Seeking to overthrow the government does not align with the general behavior of Christians, who primarily focused on spiritual matters rather than political rebellion. Publicly criticizing Roman deities could contribute to hostility, but it was the act of worshipping only one God and refusing to acknowledge the Emperor's divine status that primarily triggered persecution.