Church History I
I really enjoyed this class very much. History is my favorite subject, and if you were to throw the word Church in there; then we really got something.
This class is part one of a two part course. In this class we followed the story of the church through its first 1,000 years. There was a lot of stuff to address to say the least.
The following assignment is my Research Paper. We were told to "Write a research paper of not less than 2500 words on a topic appropriate to this class." Mine was 4,138. Like I said, I love history.
This class is part one of a two part course. In this class we followed the story of the church through its first 1,000 years. There was a lot of stuff to address to say the least.
The following assignment is my Research Paper. We were told to "Write a research paper of not less than 2500 words on a topic appropriate to this class." Mine was 4,138. Like I said, I love history.
Persecutions Produce Prosperity
Chuck Chapman
God’s Bible School and College
Thesis
There is a fear going around today that the Church is in very bad shape, and on the verge of extinction. This fear believes that certain judgment is upon us as the church, and as a nation. It is the purpose of this paper to demonstrate that although judgment does come, the church will always endure until the second coming of Christ, and that suffering and persecutions do in fact produce prosperity. The goal of this paper will be addressed by using the ancient Church as our example; in particular from the time of Christ; to the reign of Emperor Constantine.
Persecutions Produce Prosperity
Somewhere between seven to eight hundred years before the birth of Christ; God made a promise to us (the church) today. God spoke through the prophet Isaiah when He said “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, 11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:10-11 NKJV). Although this promise encompasses the entire bible itself; the church can stand on this promise in regards to one particular obstacle that the church has always faced, that obstacle being the threat of extinction.
The threat of extinction is nothing new to God’s chosen people. The fifty-fifth chapter of Isaiah, where this very verse was spoken; is believed to have been written during the time of the Babylonian exile. Many promises guarantying their survival were given to the Children of Israel during this time, however; these promises are not the one that this paper hangs on. The verse that we as the church can hold onto today can be found in the sixteenth chapter of Matthew. Jesus, while talking to His disciples (in particular Peter) promised the church's survival until His return by saying “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18 NKJV).
The implications of these two verses when taken together, has been of extreme comfort throughout the years as the ancient, the medieval, and the modern church have faced unmeasurable odds; and yet not only overcame, but persevered. God, whose word cannot return to Him void; has promised that the very gates of hell shall not prevail against His church. This should be of great comfort to any, and all who fear for the current survival of the church. Let us turn now together through the pages of history to the ancient church (5 BC – 590 AD) as our example in order to gain a fresh sense of encouragement for our own trying times.
The First Century (1AD -100AD)
After the death and resurrection of Jesus, He met with His disciples commanding them to “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matt 28:19). However, the problem was that many of them did not go out as He commanded; many of them stayed. Sometime later, the first persecutions began. The stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:54-60) marks the beginning of the martyrs, then James the brother of John was the next to be executed (Acts 12:2).
Shortly thereafter Paul formerly Saul of Tarsus spearheaded a period of great percussion against the church, “At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles” (Acts 8:1). This scripture clearly teaches us that percussion produces prosperity. It was this very act of percussion that led to Christ final Commandment (Matt 28:19) being accomplished. During this time of percussion, Saul had an encounter with the risen Christ and was converted to Christianity. It was also at this point that Saul was given the name Paul; and deemed the “Missionary to the Gentiles.” It would not be long at all until the great persecutor of the church, became the greatly persecuted.
During the first century Paul made a total of three missionary journeys and a trip to Rome before his death. Paul was beaten, stoned, scourged, imprisoned, ship-wrecked, and even killed; during his travels. He was severely persecuted to say the least. However, it was during Paul’s persecutions that Christianity left the confines of Jerusalem, multiple churches were founded, and thirteen books of our New Testament were written (Not to be confused with being admitted as a canonical text).
Tradition states that Paul was beheaded by Emperor Nero in the year 64 AD. This assumption is also backed by the fact that Paul never mentions in his Epistle’s the destruction of the temple and Jerusalem which occurred in the year 70 AD. In addition, to 64 AD marking the death of Paul this would also have been the year that Emperor Nero supposedly set fire to Rome and blamed it on the Christians; and whereby persecutions arose. The apostle Peter is also believed to have been crucified upside down during this time range. However, by this time a minimum of fifteen books of the New Testament (Paul's’ Epistles and 1 & 2 Peter), in addition, to the Gospel of Mark; which was most likely the influence of Peter were written.
In the year 66 AD a revolt was underway in Judea. Curtis, Lang, and Petersen record that “Emperor Nero sent Vespasian, a decorated general, to quell the revolt. Vespasian nibbled away at the rebels’ strength, putting down the opposition in Galilee, then Transjordan, then Idumea. Then he circled in on Jerusalem” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). History goes onto tell us that Vespasian was called back to Rome early; due to the unexpected death of Nero. Vespasian was named emperor, and then sent his son Titus to finish the job on Jerusalem. Titus accomplished his task in the year 70 AD. Christian and Jew alike were rounded up, sold into slavery, tortured, and even killed; persecutions were at an all-time high.
There was however, a prosperity that came out of this tragedy. Our same trio of authors record that “The destruction of Herod’s Temple signified a change in the Jews worship. When the Babylonians had destroyed Solomon’s Temple, in 586 B.C., the Jews had established synagogues, where they could study God’s law. The destruction of Herod’s Temple ended the Jewish sacrificial system and forced them to rely on the synagogue, which increased in importance” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). In summary, this awful event was the final fulfillment of Christ command to go out and make disciples of all nations. In addition, the synagogue’s which were established during the Babylonian captivity now became the center of religious worship. These synagogues had the luxury of being able to be planted anywhere and therefore they were used as a major tool or platform for the spreading of the Gospel message.
The remainder of the first century would produce the second set of persecution’s (90-96 AD), under Emperor Domitian, and a small portion of the third set of persecutions (98-177AD) under Emperor Trajan. In addition, by the end of the first century; all of the twelve disciples with the exclusion of John, and the brother of Jesus (James) and been martyred. In short, the first century’s percussion's produced prosperity for the life of the church at a very high price.
The Second Century (100AD -200AD)
As previously stated; the third set of persecutions (98-117AD) under Emperor Trajan where in effect at the beginning of the second century. Although, Trajan was not as bloodthirsty as Emperor Domitian before him; he still allowed persecutions in his empire. Pliny the younger; was a lawyer, author, and magistrate of Ancient Rome (61-112 AD); who wrote letters asking how to deal with the Christians. Pliny the younger was responsible for the interrogation, trails and executions of the Christians. Upon receiving a letter from Pliny the younger on how to deal with Christians; Wikipedia records that “Trajan’s short reply to Pliny overall affirms Pliny’s procedure and details four orders: (1) Do not seek out the Christians for trial. (2) If the accused are guilty of being Christian, then they must be punished. (3) If the accused deny they are Christians and show proof that they are not by worshiping the gods, then they will be pardoned. (4) Pliny should not allow anonymous accusations” (Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, 2013). To summarize; the Emperor allowed these persecutions, however he did not wish to have them sought out. Emperor Trajan was more concerned with the social order of Rome and the expansion of his territory during his reign.
Although, the Emperor was concerned with the higher matters of the empire; that is not to say that he did not indulge in the lower practices of the gladiatorial games. One such Christian who was executed there was named Ignatius. Ignatius was the bishop of Antioch and tradition states that he was a pupil of the Apostle John. Ignatius was condemned by Emperor Trajan for refusing to sacrifice to the pagan gods. It was during his incarceration that he met Polycarp the bishop of Smyrna, and wrote his esteemed letters where he welcomed becoming “the bread of Christ.” Ignatius was eventually thrown to the wild beast of the coliseum (117 AD).
Ignatius was also known for his letters of warning about the rise of Gnosticism, and for his letters that placed an emphasis on obeying the local bishops, and for distinguishing between bishops and elders; within the church. This distinction is of tremendous value to us today. It shows us that by the second century there was a hierarchical order established within the church.
In regards to the gnostic's, Johnson defines Gnosticism as “A collection of widely varying, amorphous, mystical, religious-philosophical groups in the first three centuries, Gnosticism is notoriously difficult to define” (Johnson, 2005). Johnson goes onto further state that “Elements common to most gnostic groups, however, show that it was a religion of personal redemption based on dualism (the belief of two eternal principles) and esoteric, mystical knowledge” (Johnson, 2005).
Gnosticism was brought about by Hellenization and a belief that the Gospel was to simple. This in turn brought about secret traditions, and secret gospels, such as; the gospel of Thomas, the gospel of Judas, and so on. These gospels were invented by members of the sect and passed off as having been written by the actual apostles; however, they were not. In truth they were written in order to establish a belief, and following in their false claims to authenticity. This religious sect pained Christianity for centuries and still harms many today. Luckily men like Ignatius and others spoke out against this heresy.
The fourth set of persecutions occurred under Emperor Hadrian (117-138 AD). The persecutions were sporadically enforced and the policies of Trajan were continued. The fifth set of persecutions occurred under Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180AD). However, between the reigns of these two Emperors some important events in the church occurred under Emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD). The former disciple of John; Polycarp was martyred. It is reported that when Polycarp was asked to recant Christ in the coliseum that he replied “Eighty-six years I have served Him. He has never done me wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King, who has saved me?” Polycarp was then burned alive at the stake, and finished off with a dagger. In addition, under Antoninus Pius reign; Justin Martyr became one of the first Christian apologists (Defender of the faith from outsiders). Justin’s greatest work was his “Apology” to the Emperor Antoninus Pius, where he defended the faith and argued that the Christian persecutions were wrong. Justin was tortured and beheaded (165 AD). His letters give us the earliest recorded glimpse into the worship services by the Christians. We have learned from Justin that worship was conducted on Sundays, the scriptures were read, the sermon was preached by the bishop, prayer was offered, and the Lord’s Supper was celebrated.
The remainder of the second century would produce the Apologists (defenders of the Christian faith, which we have previously mentioned), the Polemicists (defenders of false doctrine within the church), and other ancient documents beneficial to the preservation of the Christian faith such as the Didache (ancient manual of church instruction for new converts). One other thing worth mentioning in the second century is the blood of the martyrs that was spilled.
John McManners writes of Tertullian (a lay Christian in Carthage, Polemicists, and earliest writer of Christian Latin). McManners shares that in the year 197 AD that Tertullian wrote “The blood of the martyrs is seed” (McManners, 1990). This was made popular by the saying “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Tertullian’s observation demonstrates that the more the Christians were martyred for their faith; the more the church would grow.
Therefore, the persecutions of the second century had the effect of bringing about the prosperity of the church. Men of God rose up to defend the doctrine from within the church and from those on the outside of it. In addition, documents were formed that are still in existence today. These documents have preserved our faith and doctrine. In addition, we can also learn from these documents that a hierarchal chain of command had been established within the church; involving bishops, deacons, and elders/presbyters. Finally, this time also developed an awareness of the need of creeds, and a set of canonical books to define our faith; which we will see in the next century.
The Third Century (200AD -300AD)
The sixth set of persecutions (202-211AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Septimus Severus. Under his reign the church suffered the loss of Irenaeus the church father and the loss of Perpetua. Perpetua and her young slave girl (Felicitas) who was more like a friend or equal suffered a horrible, and yet honorable death in the arena. They were deeply wounded by the hands of a large angry heifer, however; they were not killed. It is recorded that the solider that was sent to finish off Perpetua hands were shaking so much; that she had to guide his sword to her own throat.
Towards the beginning of this century the martyrs persecution produced something that came to be both helpful, and in some small ways harmful to the church. In the year 205 AD a man named Origen began to write on the theology of Christianity. Four years earlier Origen fathers had been martyred under Septimus Severus. Origen had wanted to join his father in death that day, however; his mother had hid his cloths, therefore his mother’s actions kept him from such youthful aspirations.
Curtis, Lang, and Petersen record that Origen became the greatest scholars of the age, and was responsible for “2,000 works, including commentaries on almost every book of the bible” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). The trio went onto point out that “Origen was largely responsible for establishing the allegorical interpretation of Scripture that was to dominate the Middle Ages. In every text he believed there where three levels of meaning: the literal sense; the moral sense, which is to edify the soul; and the allegorical or spiritual sense, which was the hidden meaning important to the Christian faith." (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). In turn this form of interpretation produced leaders who neglected the historical grammatical meaning of the text.
The seventh set of persecutions (235-236AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Maximus the Thracian. The Christian martyrs during this time where Ursula, and Hippolytus; who was a disciple of Irenaeus, who was a disciple of Polycarp.
The eighth set of persecutions (249-251AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Decius. In the year 250 AD Emperor Decius issued an edict demanding that everyone (including Christians) must make animal sacrifices before the pagan alters of their community by a certain day. Those who made a sacrifice would obtain a certificate to prove that they had obeyed the order. Anyone who did not have a certificate was executed. This was an empire-wide attempt to rid them-selves of the church and Christianity. The problem that arose from this for Christians was that it was a renouncement of Christ. In addition, the Bishops were the first to be targeted. Once the persecutions were over those who had renounced Christ wanted to come back to the Church, and there were those who felt that the renouncement of Christ was the unpardonable sin; and therefore these Christians should not be able to come back into the church. This was known as the “Donatist controversy.”
During this time there was a man named Cyprian (200-258 AD). Cyprian became a Christian in the year 246 AD and was made the bishop of Carthage. When the Donatist percussions broke out in 250 AD Cyprian went into hiding; not out of fear, but to be of better use to the existing church. In the year 251 AD he wrote about the “unity of the church;” due to the internal dispute regarding the remittance of Christians who had renounced Christ back into the church. Cyprian was later beheaded by the Roman government, under Emperor Valerian.
This leads us to the ninth set of persecutions (257-260AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Valerian. Emperor Valerian was also responsible for the death of Origen; whom we have already addressed. After this period the percussions subsided for a short period, before the tenth and final set of major persecutions by the Roman government.
It is also noteworthy to mention the life of Saint Anthony (250- 356AD). Wikipedia records that “Anthony is notable for being one of the first ascetics to attempt living in the desert proper, completely cut off from civilization. His anchoretic lifestyle was remarkably harsher than that of his predecessors. Yet the title of Father of monasticism is merited as he was the inspiration for the coming of hundreds of men and women into the depths of the desert, who were then loosely, organized into small communities, especially by his disciple, Macarius.” (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2013). This man and this event (270–271AD) mark a major shift in the life of the church. Anthony’s decision was largely impart due to Christ statement that “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in heaven; and come, follow Me”(Matthew 19:21). However, some believe that the rise of Gnosticism, other false religions, and the internal disputes and growing corruption within the church could have been a factor in Anthony’s decision.
Although this century produced what seems to be more difficulties than good: the allegorical method of interpretation, Donatist controversy, and the deaths of many Christians; there were great advancements in this century as well. The Apostles creed was already in effect; mostly in regards to training new converts and it was used at their baptism. In addition, many of the disputes on the New Testament authoritative books (most completed by 175 AD) were almost settled.
The Fourth Century (300AD -400AD)
The tenth and final set of persecutions (303-311AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Diocletian Galerius. This persecution is also referred to as the “Great Persecution.” Wikipedia records that “On 23 February 303, Diocletian ordered that the newly built church at Nicomedia be razed. He demanded that its scriptures be burned, and seized its precious stores for the treasury. The next day, Diocletian's first "Edict against the Christians" was published. The edict ordered the destruction of Christian scriptures and places of worship across the empire, and prohibited Christians from assembling for worship” ( Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2013). During this horrible time, not even children were safe; many were put to death for their faith.
The empire was trying to strengthen its grip against Christianity and it was here that it ultimately lost its grip and the empire to the Christians. Throughout the last three hundred years persecutions had abounded, however; the time was ripe for change, and the first Christian Emperor would soon sit on the throne. Constantine was the son of Flavius Valerius Constantius, the Caesar, and deputy emperor in the west. Constantine was the co-emperor alongside his rival Maxentius (306-312AD) who occupied Rome. Collins and Price record that “In 312 Constantine defeated Maxentius at the battle of Milvian Bridge, outside of Rome. Constantine’s Christian sympathies became apparent just before the battle when, as a result of a vision he had, he ordered the monogram of Christ to be painted on his soldiers shields” (Collins & Price, 1999).
It is reported that Constantine looked up in the sky and saw a cross of light with the inscription “In this sign conquer.” Upon his victory at the battle of Milvian Bridge; Constantine; he issued the Edict of Milan in 313 AD. This edict ended the Christian persecutions by granting religious freedom within the empire and Christianity became the official religion of the empire. Curtis, Lang, and Petersen record that “Thus the church passed from persecution to privilege.” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000).
With the persecutions for the most part at an end, the church was finally able to focus their attention to internal issues that had been neglected. In 325 AD Constantine called for the First Council of Nicaea. Wikipedia records that “Its main accomplishments were settlement of the Christological issue of the nature of the Son of God and his relationship to God the Father, the construction of the first part of the Creed of Nicaea, establishing uniform observance of the date of Easter, and promulgation of early canon law” (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2013).
In addition, this century also produced champions of our faith such as; Athanasius, John Chrysostom, Jerome, Ambrose, and Saint Augustine. Also, Earle Cairns writes that “By the year 367, the present canon was clearly established; for Athanasius, bishop of Alexandria, listed all 27 New Testament books in his Easter letter” (Cairns, 1996). It is also noteworthy to mention that the ascetic lifestyle was in full swing, this lead to the founding of many schools and hospitals for the poor and needy. Finally, the capitol of Rome was officially switched to Constantinople and dedicated on the 11th of May in the year 330 AD. This century would also host the First Council of Constantinople in 381 AD in order to further settle and attain consensus in the church regarding the Nicene Creed and other issues.
Conclusion
History has demonstrated to us that the Church has overcome unsurpassable odds in the past; therefore, why should the present be any different? In the first century Christianity was born in the small providence of Galilee under Roman jurisdiction. Around three-hundred and twenty-five years later; Rome was the small providence under the jurisdiction of Christianity. At times the church faced what must have seemed to be certain extinction, however; it overcame and prospered. Many lives were lost, erroneous beliefs were held, and absolute power corrupted; absolutely. However, the church endured. This leads anyone to ask the question; why? Why did Christianity and not some other religion persevere? How could anything endure that much opposition and survive?
The answer is simple! Because Christ said it would (Matthew 16:18); and when He says something it does not return to Him void (Isaiah 55:10-11 NKJV). What can we as the modern church today take away from these persecutions in regards to our current struggles? The answer to this question is simple as well! We can take away encouragement, faith, and trust in Christ.
The gates of hell did not, and have not prevailed against the church which Christ founded; and they never will. This is not to say that judgment will not come upon our nation and some churches that fail to include Christ, and present the full Gospel. However, for those who are called the church (which is one body), will be saved. When Jesus disciples came to Him and asked Him about the last days; He replied “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:12-13). History teaches us today that judgment and persecutions will come, but the church and those who are faithful will endure. “Be of good Cheer” (John 16:33).
Chuck Chapman
God’s Bible School and College
Thesis
There is a fear going around today that the Church is in very bad shape, and on the verge of extinction. This fear believes that certain judgment is upon us as the church, and as a nation. It is the purpose of this paper to demonstrate that although judgment does come, the church will always endure until the second coming of Christ, and that suffering and persecutions do in fact produce prosperity. The goal of this paper will be addressed by using the ancient Church as our example; in particular from the time of Christ; to the reign of Emperor Constantine.
Persecutions Produce Prosperity
Somewhere between seven to eight hundred years before the birth of Christ; God made a promise to us (the church) today. God spoke through the prophet Isaiah when He said “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, 11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:10-11 NKJV). Although this promise encompasses the entire bible itself; the church can stand on this promise in regards to one particular obstacle that the church has always faced, that obstacle being the threat of extinction.
The threat of extinction is nothing new to God’s chosen people. The fifty-fifth chapter of Isaiah, where this very verse was spoken; is believed to have been written during the time of the Babylonian exile. Many promises guarantying their survival were given to the Children of Israel during this time, however; these promises are not the one that this paper hangs on. The verse that we as the church can hold onto today can be found in the sixteenth chapter of Matthew. Jesus, while talking to His disciples (in particular Peter) promised the church's survival until His return by saying “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18 NKJV).
The implications of these two verses when taken together, has been of extreme comfort throughout the years as the ancient, the medieval, and the modern church have faced unmeasurable odds; and yet not only overcame, but persevered. God, whose word cannot return to Him void; has promised that the very gates of hell shall not prevail against His church. This should be of great comfort to any, and all who fear for the current survival of the church. Let us turn now together through the pages of history to the ancient church (5 BC – 590 AD) as our example in order to gain a fresh sense of encouragement for our own trying times.
The First Century (1AD -100AD)
After the death and resurrection of Jesus, He met with His disciples commanding them to “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matt 28:19). However, the problem was that many of them did not go out as He commanded; many of them stayed. Sometime later, the first persecutions began. The stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:54-60) marks the beginning of the martyrs, then James the brother of John was the next to be executed (Acts 12:2).
Shortly thereafter Paul formerly Saul of Tarsus spearheaded a period of great percussion against the church, “At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles” (Acts 8:1). This scripture clearly teaches us that percussion produces prosperity. It was this very act of percussion that led to Christ final Commandment (Matt 28:19) being accomplished. During this time of percussion, Saul had an encounter with the risen Christ and was converted to Christianity. It was also at this point that Saul was given the name Paul; and deemed the “Missionary to the Gentiles.” It would not be long at all until the great persecutor of the church, became the greatly persecuted.
During the first century Paul made a total of three missionary journeys and a trip to Rome before his death. Paul was beaten, stoned, scourged, imprisoned, ship-wrecked, and even killed; during his travels. He was severely persecuted to say the least. However, it was during Paul’s persecutions that Christianity left the confines of Jerusalem, multiple churches were founded, and thirteen books of our New Testament were written (Not to be confused with being admitted as a canonical text).
Tradition states that Paul was beheaded by Emperor Nero in the year 64 AD. This assumption is also backed by the fact that Paul never mentions in his Epistle’s the destruction of the temple and Jerusalem which occurred in the year 70 AD. In addition, to 64 AD marking the death of Paul this would also have been the year that Emperor Nero supposedly set fire to Rome and blamed it on the Christians; and whereby persecutions arose. The apostle Peter is also believed to have been crucified upside down during this time range. However, by this time a minimum of fifteen books of the New Testament (Paul's’ Epistles and 1 & 2 Peter), in addition, to the Gospel of Mark; which was most likely the influence of Peter were written.
In the year 66 AD a revolt was underway in Judea. Curtis, Lang, and Petersen record that “Emperor Nero sent Vespasian, a decorated general, to quell the revolt. Vespasian nibbled away at the rebels’ strength, putting down the opposition in Galilee, then Transjordan, then Idumea. Then he circled in on Jerusalem” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). History goes onto tell us that Vespasian was called back to Rome early; due to the unexpected death of Nero. Vespasian was named emperor, and then sent his son Titus to finish the job on Jerusalem. Titus accomplished his task in the year 70 AD. Christian and Jew alike were rounded up, sold into slavery, tortured, and even killed; persecutions were at an all-time high.
There was however, a prosperity that came out of this tragedy. Our same trio of authors record that “The destruction of Herod’s Temple signified a change in the Jews worship. When the Babylonians had destroyed Solomon’s Temple, in 586 B.C., the Jews had established synagogues, where they could study God’s law. The destruction of Herod’s Temple ended the Jewish sacrificial system and forced them to rely on the synagogue, which increased in importance” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). In summary, this awful event was the final fulfillment of Christ command to go out and make disciples of all nations. In addition, the synagogue’s which were established during the Babylonian captivity now became the center of religious worship. These synagogues had the luxury of being able to be planted anywhere and therefore they were used as a major tool or platform for the spreading of the Gospel message.
The remainder of the first century would produce the second set of persecution’s (90-96 AD), under Emperor Domitian, and a small portion of the third set of persecutions (98-177AD) under Emperor Trajan. In addition, by the end of the first century; all of the twelve disciples with the exclusion of John, and the brother of Jesus (James) and been martyred. In short, the first century’s percussion's produced prosperity for the life of the church at a very high price.
The Second Century (100AD -200AD)
As previously stated; the third set of persecutions (98-117AD) under Emperor Trajan where in effect at the beginning of the second century. Although, Trajan was not as bloodthirsty as Emperor Domitian before him; he still allowed persecutions in his empire. Pliny the younger; was a lawyer, author, and magistrate of Ancient Rome (61-112 AD); who wrote letters asking how to deal with the Christians. Pliny the younger was responsible for the interrogation, trails and executions of the Christians. Upon receiving a letter from Pliny the younger on how to deal with Christians; Wikipedia records that “Trajan’s short reply to Pliny overall affirms Pliny’s procedure and details four orders: (1) Do not seek out the Christians for trial. (2) If the accused are guilty of being Christian, then they must be punished. (3) If the accused deny they are Christians and show proof that they are not by worshiping the gods, then they will be pardoned. (4) Pliny should not allow anonymous accusations” (Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, 2013). To summarize; the Emperor allowed these persecutions, however he did not wish to have them sought out. Emperor Trajan was more concerned with the social order of Rome and the expansion of his territory during his reign.
Although, the Emperor was concerned with the higher matters of the empire; that is not to say that he did not indulge in the lower practices of the gladiatorial games. One such Christian who was executed there was named Ignatius. Ignatius was the bishop of Antioch and tradition states that he was a pupil of the Apostle John. Ignatius was condemned by Emperor Trajan for refusing to sacrifice to the pagan gods. It was during his incarceration that he met Polycarp the bishop of Smyrna, and wrote his esteemed letters where he welcomed becoming “the bread of Christ.” Ignatius was eventually thrown to the wild beast of the coliseum (117 AD).
Ignatius was also known for his letters of warning about the rise of Gnosticism, and for his letters that placed an emphasis on obeying the local bishops, and for distinguishing between bishops and elders; within the church. This distinction is of tremendous value to us today. It shows us that by the second century there was a hierarchical order established within the church.
In regards to the gnostic's, Johnson defines Gnosticism as “A collection of widely varying, amorphous, mystical, religious-philosophical groups in the first three centuries, Gnosticism is notoriously difficult to define” (Johnson, 2005). Johnson goes onto further state that “Elements common to most gnostic groups, however, show that it was a religion of personal redemption based on dualism (the belief of two eternal principles) and esoteric, mystical knowledge” (Johnson, 2005).
Gnosticism was brought about by Hellenization and a belief that the Gospel was to simple. This in turn brought about secret traditions, and secret gospels, such as; the gospel of Thomas, the gospel of Judas, and so on. These gospels were invented by members of the sect and passed off as having been written by the actual apostles; however, they were not. In truth they were written in order to establish a belief, and following in their false claims to authenticity. This religious sect pained Christianity for centuries and still harms many today. Luckily men like Ignatius and others spoke out against this heresy.
The fourth set of persecutions occurred under Emperor Hadrian (117-138 AD). The persecutions were sporadically enforced and the policies of Trajan were continued. The fifth set of persecutions occurred under Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180AD). However, between the reigns of these two Emperors some important events in the church occurred under Emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD). The former disciple of John; Polycarp was martyred. It is reported that when Polycarp was asked to recant Christ in the coliseum that he replied “Eighty-six years I have served Him. He has never done me wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King, who has saved me?” Polycarp was then burned alive at the stake, and finished off with a dagger. In addition, under Antoninus Pius reign; Justin Martyr became one of the first Christian apologists (Defender of the faith from outsiders). Justin’s greatest work was his “Apology” to the Emperor Antoninus Pius, where he defended the faith and argued that the Christian persecutions were wrong. Justin was tortured and beheaded (165 AD). His letters give us the earliest recorded glimpse into the worship services by the Christians. We have learned from Justin that worship was conducted on Sundays, the scriptures were read, the sermon was preached by the bishop, prayer was offered, and the Lord’s Supper was celebrated.
The remainder of the second century would produce the Apologists (defenders of the Christian faith, which we have previously mentioned), the Polemicists (defenders of false doctrine within the church), and other ancient documents beneficial to the preservation of the Christian faith such as the Didache (ancient manual of church instruction for new converts). One other thing worth mentioning in the second century is the blood of the martyrs that was spilled.
John McManners writes of Tertullian (a lay Christian in Carthage, Polemicists, and earliest writer of Christian Latin). McManners shares that in the year 197 AD that Tertullian wrote “The blood of the martyrs is seed” (McManners, 1990). This was made popular by the saying “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Tertullian’s observation demonstrates that the more the Christians were martyred for their faith; the more the church would grow.
Therefore, the persecutions of the second century had the effect of bringing about the prosperity of the church. Men of God rose up to defend the doctrine from within the church and from those on the outside of it. In addition, documents were formed that are still in existence today. These documents have preserved our faith and doctrine. In addition, we can also learn from these documents that a hierarchal chain of command had been established within the church; involving bishops, deacons, and elders/presbyters. Finally, this time also developed an awareness of the need of creeds, and a set of canonical books to define our faith; which we will see in the next century.
The Third Century (200AD -300AD)
The sixth set of persecutions (202-211AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Septimus Severus. Under his reign the church suffered the loss of Irenaeus the church father and the loss of Perpetua. Perpetua and her young slave girl (Felicitas) who was more like a friend or equal suffered a horrible, and yet honorable death in the arena. They were deeply wounded by the hands of a large angry heifer, however; they were not killed. It is recorded that the solider that was sent to finish off Perpetua hands were shaking so much; that she had to guide his sword to her own throat.
Towards the beginning of this century the martyrs persecution produced something that came to be both helpful, and in some small ways harmful to the church. In the year 205 AD a man named Origen began to write on the theology of Christianity. Four years earlier Origen fathers had been martyred under Septimus Severus. Origen had wanted to join his father in death that day, however; his mother had hid his cloths, therefore his mother’s actions kept him from such youthful aspirations.
Curtis, Lang, and Petersen record that Origen became the greatest scholars of the age, and was responsible for “2,000 works, including commentaries on almost every book of the bible” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). The trio went onto point out that “Origen was largely responsible for establishing the allegorical interpretation of Scripture that was to dominate the Middle Ages. In every text he believed there where three levels of meaning: the literal sense; the moral sense, which is to edify the soul; and the allegorical or spiritual sense, which was the hidden meaning important to the Christian faith." (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000). In turn this form of interpretation produced leaders who neglected the historical grammatical meaning of the text.
The seventh set of persecutions (235-236AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Maximus the Thracian. The Christian martyrs during this time where Ursula, and Hippolytus; who was a disciple of Irenaeus, who was a disciple of Polycarp.
The eighth set of persecutions (249-251AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Decius. In the year 250 AD Emperor Decius issued an edict demanding that everyone (including Christians) must make animal sacrifices before the pagan alters of their community by a certain day. Those who made a sacrifice would obtain a certificate to prove that they had obeyed the order. Anyone who did not have a certificate was executed. This was an empire-wide attempt to rid them-selves of the church and Christianity. The problem that arose from this for Christians was that it was a renouncement of Christ. In addition, the Bishops were the first to be targeted. Once the persecutions were over those who had renounced Christ wanted to come back to the Church, and there were those who felt that the renouncement of Christ was the unpardonable sin; and therefore these Christians should not be able to come back into the church. This was known as the “Donatist controversy.”
During this time there was a man named Cyprian (200-258 AD). Cyprian became a Christian in the year 246 AD and was made the bishop of Carthage. When the Donatist percussions broke out in 250 AD Cyprian went into hiding; not out of fear, but to be of better use to the existing church. In the year 251 AD he wrote about the “unity of the church;” due to the internal dispute regarding the remittance of Christians who had renounced Christ back into the church. Cyprian was later beheaded by the Roman government, under Emperor Valerian.
This leads us to the ninth set of persecutions (257-260AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Valerian. Emperor Valerian was also responsible for the death of Origen; whom we have already addressed. After this period the percussions subsided for a short period, before the tenth and final set of major persecutions by the Roman government.
It is also noteworthy to mention the life of Saint Anthony (250- 356AD). Wikipedia records that “Anthony is notable for being one of the first ascetics to attempt living in the desert proper, completely cut off from civilization. His anchoretic lifestyle was remarkably harsher than that of his predecessors. Yet the title of Father of monasticism is merited as he was the inspiration for the coming of hundreds of men and women into the depths of the desert, who were then loosely, organized into small communities, especially by his disciple, Macarius.” (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2013). This man and this event (270–271AD) mark a major shift in the life of the church. Anthony’s decision was largely impart due to Christ statement that “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in heaven; and come, follow Me”(Matthew 19:21). However, some believe that the rise of Gnosticism, other false religions, and the internal disputes and growing corruption within the church could have been a factor in Anthony’s decision.
Although this century produced what seems to be more difficulties than good: the allegorical method of interpretation, Donatist controversy, and the deaths of many Christians; there were great advancements in this century as well. The Apostles creed was already in effect; mostly in regards to training new converts and it was used at their baptism. In addition, many of the disputes on the New Testament authoritative books (most completed by 175 AD) were almost settled.
The Fourth Century (300AD -400AD)
The tenth and final set of persecutions (303-311AD) against the church occurred under Emperor Diocletian Galerius. This persecution is also referred to as the “Great Persecution.” Wikipedia records that “On 23 February 303, Diocletian ordered that the newly built church at Nicomedia be razed. He demanded that its scriptures be burned, and seized its precious stores for the treasury. The next day, Diocletian's first "Edict against the Christians" was published. The edict ordered the destruction of Christian scriptures and places of worship across the empire, and prohibited Christians from assembling for worship” ( Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2013). During this horrible time, not even children were safe; many were put to death for their faith.
The empire was trying to strengthen its grip against Christianity and it was here that it ultimately lost its grip and the empire to the Christians. Throughout the last three hundred years persecutions had abounded, however; the time was ripe for change, and the first Christian Emperor would soon sit on the throne. Constantine was the son of Flavius Valerius Constantius, the Caesar, and deputy emperor in the west. Constantine was the co-emperor alongside his rival Maxentius (306-312AD) who occupied Rome. Collins and Price record that “In 312 Constantine defeated Maxentius at the battle of Milvian Bridge, outside of Rome. Constantine’s Christian sympathies became apparent just before the battle when, as a result of a vision he had, he ordered the monogram of Christ to be painted on his soldiers shields” (Collins & Price, 1999).
It is reported that Constantine looked up in the sky and saw a cross of light with the inscription “In this sign conquer.” Upon his victory at the battle of Milvian Bridge; Constantine; he issued the Edict of Milan in 313 AD. This edict ended the Christian persecutions by granting religious freedom within the empire and Christianity became the official religion of the empire. Curtis, Lang, and Petersen record that “Thus the church passed from persecution to privilege.” (Curtis, Lang, & and Petersen, 2,000).
With the persecutions for the most part at an end, the church was finally able to focus their attention to internal issues that had been neglected. In 325 AD Constantine called for the First Council of Nicaea. Wikipedia records that “Its main accomplishments were settlement of the Christological issue of the nature of the Son of God and his relationship to God the Father, the construction of the first part of the Creed of Nicaea, establishing uniform observance of the date of Easter, and promulgation of early canon law” (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2013).
In addition, this century also produced champions of our faith such as; Athanasius, John Chrysostom, Jerome, Ambrose, and Saint Augustine. Also, Earle Cairns writes that “By the year 367, the present canon was clearly established; for Athanasius, bishop of Alexandria, listed all 27 New Testament books in his Easter letter” (Cairns, 1996). It is also noteworthy to mention that the ascetic lifestyle was in full swing, this lead to the founding of many schools and hospitals for the poor and needy. Finally, the capitol of Rome was officially switched to Constantinople and dedicated on the 11th of May in the year 330 AD. This century would also host the First Council of Constantinople in 381 AD in order to further settle and attain consensus in the church regarding the Nicene Creed and other issues.
Conclusion
History has demonstrated to us that the Church has overcome unsurpassable odds in the past; therefore, why should the present be any different? In the first century Christianity was born in the small providence of Galilee under Roman jurisdiction. Around three-hundred and twenty-five years later; Rome was the small providence under the jurisdiction of Christianity. At times the church faced what must have seemed to be certain extinction, however; it overcame and prospered. Many lives were lost, erroneous beliefs were held, and absolute power corrupted; absolutely. However, the church endured. This leads anyone to ask the question; why? Why did Christianity and not some other religion persevere? How could anything endure that much opposition and survive?
The answer is simple! Because Christ said it would (Matthew 16:18); and when He says something it does not return to Him void (Isaiah 55:10-11 NKJV). What can we as the modern church today take away from these persecutions in regards to our current struggles? The answer to this question is simple as well! We can take away encouragement, faith, and trust in Christ.
The gates of hell did not, and have not prevailed against the church which Christ founded; and they never will. This is not to say that judgment will not come upon our nation and some churches that fail to include Christ, and present the full Gospel. However, for those who are called the church (which is one body), will be saved. When Jesus disciples came to Him and asked Him about the last days; He replied “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:12-13). History teaches us today that judgment and persecutions will come, but the church and those who are faithful will endure. “Be of good Cheer” (John 16:33).
Bibliography
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1. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (2013, December 5th). Retrieved December 5th, 2013, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diocletian.
2. Wikipedia the free encyclopedia. (2013). Retrieved December 4th, 2013, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pliny_the_Younger_on_Christians.
3. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (2013, December 5th). Retrieved December 5th, 2013, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthony_the_Great.
4. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (2013, December 5th). Retrieved December 5th, 2013, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Council_of_Nicaea.
5. Cairns, E. E. (1996). Christianity Through The Centuries (3rd ed.). Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States: Zondervan Publishing House.
6. Collins, M. &. (1999). The Story of Christianity. New York, New York, United States: DK Publishing, Inc.
7. Collins, M., & Price, A. M. (1999). The Story of Christianity. New York, New York, United States: DK Publishing, Inc.
8. Curtis, A. K., Lang, J. S., & and Petersen, R. (2,000). The 100 Most Important Events In Christian History. Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America: Fleming H. Revell a division of Baker Book House Company.
9. Johnson, D. M. (2005). The Evolution of Christianity . New York, New York, United States: The Continuum International Publishing Group Ltd.
10. McManners, J. (1990). The Oxford Illustrated History Of Christianity. Oxford: Oxford University Press.