From Persecution to the State Religion, Constantine
Not what you're looking for?
In the fourth century Christianity was moved from being a persecuted minority of the population to the official state religion of the Roman Empire. Explain using references, how did this transition take place? As well, discuss what the pros and cons were of putting this movement into the center of society.
Purchase this Solution
Solution Summary
In the fourth century Christianity was moved from being a persecuted minority of the population to the official state religion of the Roman Empire. This response discusses how this took place, the results from this change and the pros and cons of Christianity becoming legal and even promoted under Constantine's rule.
Solution Preview
The Great Persecution of Christians "began in 303 at the instigation of Galerius, but with the support of Diocletian" (Ferguson, 178). Christian buildings were leveled, scriptures were burned, bishops imprisoned and sacrifice to the gods were required (Ferguson, 179).
In 306, Constantine was named emperor. In 312, Constantine is said to have received a vision which "marked his espousal of the Christian religion" (Ferguson, 181).
In 313, Constantine issued "The Edict of Milan". "This edict did not set up Christianity as the only and official religion of the Empire. It did not forbid the practice of heathen religions. The Edict of Milan put a stop to the persecutions, and proclaimed absolute freedom of conscience. It placed Christianity upon a ...
Purchase this Solution
Free BrainMass Quizzes
Important Biblical Characters
Do you know the people in the bible? Test your knowledge with this quiz.
Bible Verse Knowledge
Do you know where these famous biblical verses are found? Test your verse knowledge with this quiz.
Old Testament Figures
Do you know the individuals in the Old Testament? Test your knowledge with this quiz.
Biblical Numbers
Do you know the important numbers found in the Bible?
The Bible Part 2
Ready to keep testing your knowledge of the order of the books of the Bible? Find out how much you know with this quiz.