Contantine’s Conversion Flashcards
In the first three centuries of Christianity , How were Christian’s treated?
In the first three centuries of Christianity , Roman emperors either persecuted Christians or simply ignored them. The emperors themselves were not Christians. Roman authorities were actually responsible for the execution of Jesus and the emperors were not allowed to follow a religion that worshipped a supposed ‘Jewish criminal’
When did all this change?
This changed in 312CE
What happened to Constantine ?
Constantine was going into battle and was afraid of defeat. Constantine’s mother, who was Christian, provoked Constantine to pray to God. As Constantine was praying, the sky had words appear ‘ conquer by this ‘ and Constantine was mesmerised. The next day, Constantine sent his army into battle carrying a cross symbol on their shields. His men defeated Maxentius’ army (who were 4 times stronger than them).
What did Constantine believe after his battle?
He believed that the Christian god had granted him victory, and so he converted to Christianity.
What was the Edict of Milan?
The edict made Christianity legal and allowed Christian’s to meet and worship freely without fear of persecution. The edict also banned Jews from owning Christian slaves.
What did Constantine also order?
He ordered for Christian’s to have their property returned to them,he ordered more copies of Christian scriptures and ordered for more Christian churches to be built.
