SS Outline 12.21.2025

Church History
The Great Persecution and the Final Victory: From the Cross to the Crown
Focus Biography: Emperor Constantine (c. 272–337 AD)

1. The Empire under Diocletian (r. 284–305)

• Diocletian’s goal: restore imperial unity after decades of chaos.
• Established the Tetrarchy—four emperors ruling jointly.
• Sought unity through religious conformity: the worship of Jupiter and the genius of the emperor.

2. The Great Persecution (303–311)

• Edict of 303: ordered destruction of churches, burning of Scriptures, imprisonment of clergy, and forced sacrifices. Thousands martyred; others went into hiding.
• The persecution was especially severe in the East (Palestine, Egypt, Syria).

3. The Church’s Response

• Some lapsed; others stood firm (confessores).
• Martyr narratives circulated as encouragement (Acts of the Martyrs).
• The church’s resilience became proof of divine favor.

4. The Turning Point

• In 311, Galerius (Diocletian’s successor) issued an Edict of Toleration.
• Within two years, Constantine would change everything.

Reading 1 – Eusebius, Church History 8.2
“It would be impossible to describe the greatness of the tribulation. For the rulers were inflamed with rage against the pious. But the more they afflicted us, the more increased the number and excellence of the faithful.”
Discussion Questions:

• How does Eusebius interpret persecution in light of God’s sovereignty?
• What parallels exist with Tertullian’s claim, “The blood of Christians is seed”?

Reading 2 – The Edict of Milan (313 AD)
“We, Constantine and Licinius, have resolved to grant to Christians and to all others full authority to observe that religion which each preferred… that no one whatsoever should be denied the liberty of following the religion of his heart.”
Discussion Questions:

• What kind of freedom is this edict granting?
• How might such liberty both bless and challenge the church?

Reading 3 – Eusebius, Life of Constantine 1.28
“Constantine saw with his own eyes the sign of a cross of light in the heavens, bearing the inscription, In this sign, conquer. Astonished, he vowed to the Christ of God that if he gave him victory, he would serve Him.”
Discussion Questions:

• What does this reveal about Constantine’s understanding of faith and power?
• Do you think his conversion was primarily political, spiritual, or both?

Constantine
1. From Soldier to Emperor

• Born in Naissus (modern Serbia) around 272.
• Son of Constantius (Roman general) & Helena (later became a devout Christian).
• Rose through the military ranks; declared emperor by his troops in 306.

2. The Battle of the Milvian Bridge (312)

• Before facing rival Maxentius, Constantine reportedly saw a cross of light with the words In hoc signo vinces (“In this sign, conquer”).
• Adopted the Chi-Rho (☧) on his soldiers’ shields and banners.
• Won a decisive victory and attributed it to the Christian God.

3. The Aftermath

• In 313, issued the Edict of Milan with Licinius, legalizing Christianity.
• Later granted privileges to clergy, built churches (notably the Church of the Holy Sepulchre), and convened the Council of Nicaea (325).