Christianity began around 33 AD; it grew exponentially in the first century so that by the late 90s it was not only known to the Roman government but also hated. Why did the Romans persecute Christians during this period? What about Christians evoked such hateful, violent reactions? In his commentary on Revelation, After These Things I Saw (Joplin, MO: College Press, 1997), Edward P. Myers lists ten reasons for this persecution. I have abbreviated them here.
- Christians proselytized – an illegal practice in Rome. The Romans tolerated all kinds of religions so long as those religions did not seek to convert others.
- Christians committed to God’s kingdom, even when doing so conflicted with the goals of the Roman Empire.
- Christians refused participation in many of the social and cultural activities around them because they were idolatrous.
- The Christian practices of meeting at night and “eating flesh and drinking” blood confused and repulsed the Romans.
- Christians refused to serve in the Roman army because of its strong ties to the worship of the emperor and the empire.
- Christians generally came from the lowest social classes.
- The Roman prejudice against Jews extended to Christians because of their close association.
- The enthusiasm and dedication of Christians aroused Roman suspicions on a number of levels.
- The adoption of Christianity strained social relationships and challenged economic structures. We find an example of this in the speech by Demetrius the silversmith (Acts 19:23–41).
- Christians refused to worship the emperor. This became the test of loyalty in the outer provinces of the Roman Empire – a test Christians could not pass.
As people who believe in the restoration of New Testament Christianity, we often focus on the form of religion: the method and mode of baptism, the acts of worship, and congregational organization. In the face of many manmade churches, we have to address such issues. Yet, I wonder if we have not forgotten another important focus. Do we share the dedication and zeal of the first Christians? Are we willing to go against the tide of culture, even when it means we become objects of persecution and hate? In modern terms, could we be accused of any of the items on this list? Let us renew our zeal and daily glory in the cross of Christ.
Clay Leonard