One of the most important events of the early church is the conversion of the Roman Emperor Constantine. While many still debate his conversion or the sincerity of his faith, what cannot be argued, is the impact this had on the church. The emergence of the Constantinian era in both world and church history is still evident today. The recent visit of Pope Francis to the United States demonstrates the still present impact. In summary, the conversion of Constantine and the subsequent policies enacted shifted the paradigm or narrative of the early church from the persecuted sect to the endorsed mainstream state religion.
Some believe that the conversion of Constantine can be traced back to the battle of Milvian Bridge that occurred on October 28, …show more content…
They met in Milan and agreed to an alliance that included the end of the persecution of Christians. It also included the return of buildings, cemeteries, and other properties. This agreement is known as the “Edict of Milan.”
The alliance developed between Constantine and Licinius was the initial step to help Licinius defeat a common rival, Maximinus Daia, but was also a pathway for Constantine to assume greater control and eventually rule the entire Roman Empire. This eventual and ultimate conflict between Constantine and Licinius took place in 322 A.D., which led to the defeat of Licinius with the spoils of the entire empire going to Constantine.
With Constantine in total control, the long period of civil wars ended and a period of peace and prosperity ensued. As one of the first steps, Constantine initiated the building of a “New Rome” with its centerpiece being a new city called Constantinople. For this new “City of Constantine” he chose Byzantium, which also held tremendous strategic value at the touch point of Asia Minor and Europe, which represents the bridge between the two halves of the now united empire. This location is also very strategic as it controls all shipping between the Mediterranean and Black …show more content…
While he had demonstrated sincerity and belief in the power of Christ, we question his belief in Christ. During his reign and up to his death in 337 A.D., it appeared that he enacted policies to gain favor not from Christians, but from their God. However, at this same time, he still functioned as the High Priest of paganism. In summary, it can be argued that Constantine was sincere, but did little to learn or gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. However, Constantine was baptized on his deathbed. As such, the sincerity of his faith and the condition of his heart at that moment along with his eternal destiny remains a mystery held between himself and our Lord and Savior, Jesus
Some believe that the conversion of Constantine can be traced back to the battle of Milvian Bridge that occurred on October 28, …show more content…
They met in Milan and agreed to an alliance that included the end of the persecution of Christians. It also included the return of buildings, cemeteries, and other properties. This agreement is known as the “Edict of Milan.”
The alliance developed between Constantine and Licinius was the initial step to help Licinius defeat a common rival, Maximinus Daia, but was also a pathway for Constantine to assume greater control and eventually rule the entire Roman Empire. This eventual and ultimate conflict between Constantine and Licinius took place in 322 A.D., which led to the defeat of Licinius with the spoils of the entire empire going to Constantine.
With Constantine in total control, the long period of civil wars ended and a period of peace and prosperity ensued. As one of the first steps, Constantine initiated the building of a “New Rome” with its centerpiece being a new city called Constantinople. For this new “City of Constantine” he chose Byzantium, which also held tremendous strategic value at the touch point of Asia Minor and Europe, which represents the bridge between the two halves of the now united empire. This location is also very strategic as it controls all shipping between the Mediterranean and Black …show more content…
While he had demonstrated sincerity and belief in the power of Christ, we question his belief in Christ. During his reign and up to his death in 337 A.D., it appeared that he enacted policies to gain favor not from Christians, but from their God. However, at this same time, he still functioned as the High Priest of paganism. In summary, it can be argued that Constantine was sincere, but did little to learn or gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. However, Constantine was baptized on his deathbed. As such, the sincerity of his faith and the condition of his heart at that moment along with his eternal destiny remains a mystery held between himself and our Lord and Savior, Jesus