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Began after Jesus’s resurrection and ascension, primarily through the work of the apostles.

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Apostles Peter and Paul were the most influential, with Paul especially known for his missionary journeys.

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The apostles spread Christianity across the Roman Empire, particularly in regions like Judea, Asia Minor, Greece, and Rome.

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New Testament letters (epistles) were written during this period to various churches, establishing doctrines.

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Laid the foundations of Christian theology, church practices, and community structure.

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Timeline of Persecution:

Nero (64 AD): First major persecution; Nero blamed Christians for the Great Fire of Rome.

Trajan to Decius (98–250 AD): Persecution became more systematic; Christians could be punished by law for refusing to worship Roman gods.

Diocletian (303–311 AD): Most severe persecution, with the destruction of churches and Christian texts.

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Notable figures include Stephen (the first martyr), Polycarp, and Perpetua.

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Many Christians met in underground catacombs to avoid persecution.

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Persecution strengthened Christian identity and increased sympathy among non-Christians, ultimately aiding its spread.

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The Imperial Church (c. 313–590 AD) Constantine’s Conversion

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The Imperial Church (c. 313–590 AD) Constantine’s Conversion

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The Roman Emperor Constantine became the first emperor to convert to Christianity.

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The first major church council, called by Constantine, where church leaders met to create a unified set of beliefs. They wrote the Nicene Creed, a statement of core Christian beliefs.

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In 380 AD, Emperor Theodosius declared Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire.

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The church developed a structure with leaders like bishops and priests, which helped organize and spread the religion.

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With official support, large churches called basilicas were built across the empire for worship.