How did Jesus's story and teachings spread across the ancient world after his death?

Jesus taught his twelve apostles to take the lead in the Christian congregations, organizing ALL disciples to accomplish God's will. This command is brought out at Matthew 28:19+20, where Jesus says: "... go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."(NIV)