Christianity's Early Years Continuing our study of historical issues related to the work of apologetics, in this lesson we begin considering the history of the church following the New Testament era. What was the strategic importance of Pentecost? What is the Bauer-Ehrman thesis and how is it mistaken? What were the two main periods of persecution experienced by the church in the first centuries. When was the greatest and most intense persecution? What is the story of Constantine’s conversion at the Milvian bridge? What are some evidences that Constantine’s conversion was authentic? What are some mistakes that people often make in evaluation Constantine’s life and influence? Did Constantine dominate and control the church during his rule? What are some prevalent myths about the Council of Nicaea? How do we know that orthodoxy was the belief of the earliest church? (59 min)
Lesson 37: Review Questions
Lesson 37: Lesson Notes
Handout: The Nicene Creeds

Tags: Constantine, Persecution, Nicaea