Christian Persecutions During the First 3 Centuries

THEO 310

Major Persecutions during the First 3 Centuries

During the first 3 centuries, Christians were persecuted in the Roman Empire. These persecutions were regular but not constant. Most persecutions were sporadic and localized. They based on political climate and disposition of the emperor. Most of the decrees against Christianity were aimed at the church property, scriptures, and clergy. It is believed that more Christians have been martyred in the last 50 years than in the first 300.

The persecutions are believed to have sparked the cult of saints, facilitated rapid growth and spread Christianity, prompted defense and explanations (the Apologies), and raised fundamental questions about the nature of the church. Since the 5th Century, 10 major persecutions have been identified. Questions have arisen about their parallel to the 10 plagues of Egypt.

The First Persecution took place under Emperor Nero (64-68). He was the first to distinguish between Christians and Jews. This was the first time the government sanctioned persecutions. The great fire of 64 destroyed most of the city allowed him to build palaces and build Greek style buildings. As grumbling began to rise that he set the fires himself, he blamed the Christians to provide a diversion from him.

Nero’s insanity showed through when he publicly tortured Christians for fun. He would round up Christians and feed them to wild dogs or lions. Some would be crucified publicly. There were times that he would light them on fire at sunset to provide light so he could see. Being a Christian was a capital crime, the only way to get a pardon was to publicly condemn Jesus and offer a sacrifice to the Gods. Prominent Martyrs during this period were St. Peter and St Paul.

The Second Persecution came under Emperor Domitian (81-96). He started out to be a kind and compassionate leader but quickly became cruel and dangerous. He had members of his family and high ranking leaders in his own government put to...