Podcasts about Maxentius

Den romerske kejsaren Konstantin den stores (272–337 e.Kr.) omvändelse till kristendomen är en central händelse i Västerlandets historia. Kristendomen gick från att vara en förföljd minoritet till att bli den dominerande religionen i Romarriket.Konstantins relation till den traditionella romerska religionen var dock pragmatisk. Han tillät fortsatt kult av solguden Sol Invictus och tolererade inledningsvis andra religioner. Trots sitt starka stöd för kyrkan lät han inte döpa sig förrän på sin dödsbädd år 337. Denna balansgång mellan det gamla och det nya var sannolikt avgörande för hans politiska framgång.I detta avsnitt av podden Historia Nu samtalar programledaren Urban Lindstedt med antikvetaren och författaren Allan Klynne, som är aktuell med boken Konstantin den store – Roms förste kristne kejsare.I början av 300-talet e.Kr. befann sig det romerska imperiet i djup kris. Tetrarkin – ett fyrkejsarsystem skapat för att stabilisera styret – hade kollapsat, och inbördeskrig rasade mellan rivaliserande tronpretendenter. I detta kaos steg Konstantin fram, son till kejsaren Constantius Chlorus. Efter faderns död år 306 utropades han av sina trupper till kejsare i väst.År 312 ställdes Konstantin mot sin främsta konkurrent om makten, Maxentius, i slaget vid Milviska bron. Enligt flera källor såg han inför striden ett kors på himlen, tillsammans med orden "I detta tecken skall du segra", eller drömde om en ängel som visade honom symbolen Chi-Rho – de första bokstäverna i det grekiska ordet för Kristus. Han lät måla symbolen på soldaternas sköldar och vann en avgörande seger. Maxentius drunknade i Tibern, och Konstantin tågade in i Rom som härskare över väst.Året därpå, 313, utfärdade Konstantin tillsammans med kejsar Licinius det så kallade Milanoediktet, som garanterade religionsfrihet i hela riket och avslutade de systematiska förföljelserna av kristna. Även om han själv ännu inte var döpt började han aktivt gynna kyrkan: han donerade mark, gav ekonomiskt stöd och påbörjade bygget av kyrkor som Lateranbasilikan och den första Peterskyrkan.Vid denna tid var kristendomen ännu en minoritetsreligion, men snabbt växande. Dess fokus på själens frälsning, individens värde och evigt liv tilltalade många i ett samhälle präglat av oro och kris. Dess välorganiserade församlingar bidrog till en stark infrastruktur, som snart blev ett viktigt verktyg även för staten.Trots kristendomens pacifistiska ursprung valde Konstantin att knyta den till sin militära och politiska makt. Genom att uppträda som Guds utvalde kejsare – en förening av andlig och världslig auktoritet – skapade han ett nytt sätt att härska.Musik: Saturnalia av bzur, Storyblock Audio.Bild: Konstantins staty i Kapitolinska museerna. Del av statyn av Konstantin den store, bevarad i Kapitolinska museerna i Rom. Skulpturen, ursprungligen uppförd i början av 300-talet e.Kr., föreställer kejsaren i idealiserad stil och symboliserar hans makt och gudomliga auktoritet som både romersk härskare och kristendomens beskyddare. Wikipedia. Public Domain.Lyssna också på Pyrrhos – på fel sida i historien i kampen om världsherraväldet.Klippare: Emanuel Lehtonen Vill du stödja podden och samtidigt höra ännu mer av Historia Nu? Gå med i vårt gille genom att klicka här: https://plus.acast.com/s/historianu-med-urban-lindstedt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

13 And Jesus came into the quarters of Caesarea Philippi: and he asked his disciples, saying: Whom do men say that the Son of man is?Venit autem Jesus in partes Caesareae Philippi : et interrogabat discipulos suos, dicens : Quem dicunt homines esse Filium hominis?  14 But they said: Some John the Baptist, and other some Elias, and others Jeremias, or one of the prophets.At illi dixerunt : Alii Joannem Baptistam, alii autem Eliam, alii vero Jeremiam, aut unum ex prophetis.  15 Jesus saith to them: But whom do you say that I am?Dicit illis Jesus : Vos autem, quem me esse dicitis?  16 Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.Respondens Simon Petrus dixit : Tu es Christus, Filius Dei vivi.  17 And Jesus answering, said to him: Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: because flesh and blood hath not revealed it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.Respondens autem Jesus, dixit ei : Beatus es Simon Bar Jona : quia caro et sanguis non revelavit tibi, sed Pater meus, qui in caelis est.  18 And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.Et ego dico tibi, quia tu es Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo Ecclesiam meam, et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus eam.  19 And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose upon earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven.Et tibi dabo claves regni caelorum. Et quodcumque ligaveris super terram, erit ligatum et in caelis : et quodcumque solveris super terram, erit solutum et in caelis. St Marcellus I defended the rights of the Church with heroic resistance. On this account he was exiled by the heritical Maxentius. He died A.D. 310.

Join Constantine as he crossed the Alps and marches on Rome, to meet his rival Augustus, Maxentius (son of Maximian the Mischievous) at the fabled Milvian Bridge.  Constantine is intent on unwinding Diocletian's project, the Frankenstein-ish Tetrarchy, and consolidating power in his hands.  He will use his considerable wiles, and the surging Christian sect, to accomplish his audacious objectives.  

Constantine assumes his father's mantle in Eboracum when know one authorized him to do so.  But with the support of the troops and an unyielding sense of destiny and belief in his own abilities, he begins to gather power, and legitimacy in Britannia, Gaul and Hispania as the various rulers of the Italy and the East squabble among themselves.  We said goodbye to the Old Guard, Diocletian, Maximian and Galerius now, as the Roman Empire primes itself for the most explosive Roman Civil War in centuries between Constantine, Maxentius, Licinius and Maximinus.  Who will come out on top?

Written by Ben Counter Starring Jordan Cobb as Emmeline Ayuba Mick Wheaton as Overseer Rider And Rhys Tirado as Paragon Ibanez Featuring Kale Brown as Janette David Ault as Drifter Chris Quinby and Fin Carter as Extirpators Elissa Park as Comm System Atticus Jackson as Emergency System Jade Theriault as Enigma Cherie Hendrie as Historical Broadcast Merr Moris as Police Annoucement And Ben Counter as Maxentius and Librarian Media broadcasts by Bailey Wolfe, Chris Quinby, and Damon Alums Dialogue editing by Atticus Jackson Sound Editing by Brad Colbroock Original Music by Matt Roi Berger Showrunning by Veronica California and Rhys Tirado Produced by Pacific S. Obadiah Executive Producers Tom Owen and Brad Miska Produced in partnership with Electronic Arts and Motive Studio. Special thanks to Joanna Berry, Roman Campos Oriola, and Gregory Joson. Presented by Bloody FM  https://www.ea.com/games/dead-space/dead-space www.Bloody-Disgusting.com  Twitter: https://twitter.com/bloodyfm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloody_fm/  Discord: https://discord.gg/tJEeNUzeZX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we will examine the story of a real life demon who betrayed his brothers in arms, deceived many in a craven lust for power and murdered his own wife and child. With a resume like that, it goes without saying Roman Emperor, Saint Constantine the Great is held up as an iconic Christian hero. Also making special guest star appearances we have Romans, CAESAR, Christians, Eusebius, Lactantius, Christianity, Roman Empire, France, Britain, Italy, Rome, Tetrarch, Maxentius, Tiber river, Milvian Bridge, Jesus Christ, Chi Rho, Greek, Christos, Twitter, X, staurogram, crucifix, Arch of Constantine, Tetrarchy, Licinius, Maximinus, Edict of Milan, RON BURGUNDY, Paganism, Pontifex Maximus, pagan, Pope, council of Nicaea, Nicene Creed, Holy Trinity, Arius, Holy Land, St Helena, Constantinople, Fausta, Crispus, Jupiter, Persians, Armenia, Tiridates III, Persia, river Jordan, Bishop of Nicomedia, Pentecost, Holy Ghost, Mary, Apostles, Heaven, #SketchComedy #Sketch #Comedy #Sketch Comedy #Atheist #Science #History #Atheism #ConspiracyTheory #Conspiracy #Conspiracies #Sceptical #Scepticism #Mythology #Religion #Devil #Satan #Skeptic #Debunk #SatanIsMySuperhero #Podcast #funny #sketch #skit #comedy #comedyshow #comedyskits #HeavyMetal #RomanEmpire #Rome #AncientRome #Romans #RomanEmperor 

The Angels Were Amazed by Mihai OaraHuman history has had many mysterious episodes for which there is no easy explanation. Why did the magi decide to take a long and dangerous journey, all the way from Persia to Jerusalem, to bring gifts to a supposed future king? What about the Chi-Rho sign in the sky that encouraged Constantine's soldiers to fight the army of Maxentius and win a great victory in the Battle of the Milvian Bridge, which led to the recognition of Christianity in the Roman Empire? Why did Atilla give up on his march to Rome at a time when he had military supremacy in Italy? Why did the Mongols, poised to conquer the whole of Europe, suddenly stop and go back home? Why did the last Byzantine emperor, Constantine XI, decide to stay and die in the city when the fall of Constantinople was imminent?God's hand appears in all these episodes. He is sending His angels, who take on human appearance and make the light and barely noticeable push that changes the direction of history. In dealing with humans, they do not use supernatural powers, only their wisdom and skills. God's grandiose plans for humanity, beyond their immediate comprehension, are gradually revealed to them. They act as God's ministering spirits, in constant contemplation of God's wonderful creation and His love for mankind.While interesting and engaging, the stories in this book follow a common thread and convey deep truths about God and men.https://www.amazon.com/Angels-Were-Amazed-Mihai-Oara/dp/B0CQPKT7H7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=4U15EM8S9OGE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.6A0Nrv4xW7M7FHZLCnDHAvWz2lgNOjYzVHJDdMYmMPmcQ0XIsuaxHF7j524k_EhpDZeq6hKgnC4mut-OyhU0iAykaar5MXAy4XR0VGy62B7zJRkQkBB4VAlsEZWq5-H6KBjy00qaGl2QPJJJJDp0qQ.7LwTiIBUO1-MZ-gmbPkWbsLwQU46Wy1ut0KJviaCuZU&dib_tag=se&keywords=The+Angels+Were+Amazed&qid=1705208134&s=books&sprefix=as+i+walk+in+the+heart+of+god%2Cstripbooks-intl-ship%2C324&sr=1-1https://mihaioara.com/http://www.KingPagesPress.com   http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/11824kpp1.mp3   

And Jesus came into the quarters of Caesarea Philippi: and he asked his disciples, saying: Whom do men say that the Son of man is?Venit autem Jesus in partes Caesareae Philippi : et interrogabat discipulos suos, dicens : Quem dicunt homines esse Filium hominis?  14 But they said: Some John the Baptist, and other some Elias, and others Jeremias, or one of the prophets.At illi dixerunt : Alii Joannem Baptistam, alii autem Eliam, alii vero Jeremiam, aut unum ex prophetis.  15 Jesus saith to them: But whom do you say that I am?Dicit illis Jesus : Vos autem, quem me esse dicitis?  16 Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.Respondens Simon Petrus dixit : Tu es Christus, Filius Dei vivi.  17 And Jesus answering, said to him: Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: because flesh and blood hath not revealed it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.Respondens autem Jesus, dixit ei : Beatus es Simon Bar Jona : quia caro et sanguis non revelavit tibi, sed Pater meus, qui in caelis est.  18 And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.Et ego dico tibi, quia tu es Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo Ecclesiam meam, et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus eam.  19 And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose upon earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven.Et tibi dabo claves regni caelorum. Et quodcumque ligaveris super terram, erit ligatum et in caelis : et quodcumque solveris super terram, erit solutum et in caelis. St Marcellus I, defending the rights of the church with heroic resistance. On this account he was exiled by the heretical Maxentius. He died A.D. 310.

[Part 1] Emperor Constantine was said to have had a vision of something in the sky, which convinced him to convert to Christianity. But was this the whole story? After the Battle of the Milvian Bridge between Constantine and Maxentius, the Arch of Constantine was erected to celebrate his victory. Why were pagan scenes depicted in the arch? Were the “old gods'” ways secretly incorporated into Constantine's rule? The ruling elite at the time were devout followers of the cult of Mithraism, so to whom was Constantine really loyal? When the Metaphysical Podcast started uncovering historical discrepancies, sun worship, Zoroastrianism, and evidence of bull sacrifice, it brought into question the mainstream stories of Constantine. Has the ruler been put on a pedestal and actually become a figure of worship today, adopted from even older objects of devotion? Hear John Vivanco's remote viewing data and Rob Counts' investigative research. Join Metaphysical for a show that's out of this world.

Den romerska kejsartiden under 300-talet efter vår tideräkning är politiskt ganska svajig med flera som förkunnar sig makt. En av dessa, Maxentius, en kejsare som ansågs illegitim av sina medregenter, är den sista romerska kejsaren som skulle bo permanent i huvudstaden. Han skulle även komma att inleda byggprogram i staden. Två byggnader som är påbörjade under hans livstid är Templet till Romulus och Romulus Mausoleum. Vi ställer oss frågan om det en koppling mellan båda eller någon av dessa två byggnader och de mynt som finns att skåda i Kungliga Myntkabinettet - Ekonomiska museets samlingar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Im Jahr 312 kommt es im Norden Roms, an der Milvischen Brücke, zu einer Schlacht, die die Geschichte des Reichs in den nächsten Jahrhunderten maßgeblich prägt: Maxentius, der letzte Kaiser in Rom, ertrinkt im Tiber und ist damit der erste Feldherr, der im Zeichen des christlichen Kreuzes besiegt wird. Denn sein Gegner ist Konstantin, der damit die Kontrolle über den westlichen Teil des Römischen Imperiums unter seine Kontrolle bringt und als der erste christliche Kaiser in die Geschichte eingeht. Wir sprechen in der Folge über den Versuch Diokletians, mit Hilfe der Tetrarchie die Zeit der Soldatenkaiser zu überwinden, warum diese Herrschaftsform so ungewöhnlich war und wieso Maxentius nie als legitimer Kaiser anerkannt wurde. //Literatur Hartmut Leppin, Hauke Ziemssen: Maxentius: Der letzte Kaiser in Rom, 2007. //Aus unserer Werbung Du möchtest mehr über unsere Werbepartner erfahren? Hier findest du alle Infos & Rabatte: https://linktr.ee/GeschichtenausderGeschichte NEU: Wer unsere Folgen lieber ohne Werbung anhören will, kann das über eine kleine Unterstützung auf Steady oder ein Abo des GeschichteFM-Plus Kanals auf Apple Podcasts tun. Wir freuen uns, wenn ihr den Podcast bei Apple Podcasts oder wo auch immer dies möglich ist rezensiert oder bewertet. Wir freuen uns auch immer, wenn ihr euren Freundinnen und Freunden, Kolleginnen und Kollegen oder sogar Nachbarinnen und Nachbarn von uns erzählt!

This is part 11 of the Early Church History class. Have you heard of the Roman emperor Constantine? He had a massive impact on Christianity. Not only did he end the brutal persecutions of his predecessors, but he also used the Roman government to actively support the Church. However, his involvement also resulted in significant changes that eventually led to the merger between Church and State called Christendom. In this episode you'll learn about the good and the bad effects of Constantine's involvement in Christianity. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQDFaIh2SsY&list=PLN9jFDsS3QV2lk3B0I7Pa77hfwKJm1SRI&index=11 Listen to this episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts —— Links —— More podcasts about Constantine Get Kegan Chandler's book, Constantine and the Divine Mind Find out more about this summer's Family Camp here. More Restitutio resources on Christian history See other classes here Support Restitutio by donating here Join our Restitutio Facebook Group and follow Sean Finnegan on Twitter @RestitutioSF Leave a voice message via SpeakPipe with questions or comments and we may play them out on the air Intro music: Good Vibes by MBB Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0) Free Download / Stream: Music promoted by Audio Library. Who is Sean Finnegan?  Read his bio here —— Notes —— Today, we're looking at one of the most influential people in church history: Constantine (272-337). Also called Constantine the Great or Constantine I There would be 10 more emperors named Constantine. Constantine 11th was the last Roman emperor who died when the Muslims conquered Constantinople in 1453. Constantine's “Edict of Milan”[1] 303-313 - The Great Persecution 313 - Toleration granted to Christians and all religions Restore confiscated property Constantine's Favoring of Christianity Exemption from public office Tax exemption Use of cursus publicus Printing of Christian scriptures Closing of law courts on Sundays Abolition of face-branding as a punishment Constantine and Churches Donated 3,000 bags of money to church in African provinces Rebuilt and enlarged damaged churches Built new churches, especially through his mother, Helena Helena also allegedly finds the true cross (relic). Constantine's Government Appointed government officials that were Christians Sought advice from Christian bishops on decisions Shared his table with Christians Had bishops accompany soldiers Christian Attitude Toward Military Prior to Constantine Jesus and his apostles taught to love enemies (Matthew 5.5, 9, 38-48; 1 Thessalonians 5.15; Romans 12.14, 17-21; 1 Peter 3.8-11) Didache 1.3-4; Justin Martyr, First Apology 39, Irenaeus, Against Heresies 4.34, Tertullian, On Idolatry 19, Hippolytus, Apostolic Tradition 16.17-19, Origen, Against Celsus 5.33, Cyprian, Epistle I: To Donatus 6, Arnobius, Against the Heathen 1.6, Lactantius, Divine Institutes 5.8.[2] Preston Sprinkle: “Despite the presence of Christians in the military, it is clear that no single Christian writer before Constantine sanctioned the use of violence, not even toward bad guys.”[3] Constantine's Vision Had been a worshiper of Sol Invictus (Unconquered Sun) Allegedly saw something above the sun Had a dream in which Christ told him to use his initials, chi rho (also called, labarum), on his soldiers' shields (“in this you will conquer”) At the battle of the Milvian Bridge, Constantine defeated Maxentius, fished his body out of the river, decapitated him, and paraded his head through the city on a stick. Christian Leaders Seek Favor Christians requested the emperor to persecute other Christians. Constantine's Edict Against the Heretics Novatians, Valentinians, Marcionites, Paulians, Cataphrygians Currying imperial favor to defeat one's Christian enemies became a standard tactic. The Constantinian shift initiated a new stage in church history—Christendom, the idea that a society or nation could be Christian. Before long, all infants would be baptized, making everyone a member of the church by birth. Everyone would be raised Christian. The government would pay clergy their salaries. How many of these so-called Christians followed Christ? Evangelism was no longer needed. The kingdom had come. The Roman Empire became the holy Roman Empire and was seen as God's kingdom on earth. Review Constantine's involvement in Christianity brought several significant changes, both good and bad, initiating the “merger” of the church and the state known as Christendom. Constantine ended the persecution of Christians, issuing the Edict of Milan (along with Licinius) in 313. Constantine donated large sums of money to rebuild churches, build new churches, and support clergy. Constantine's favoritism of Christianity incentivized people to join the church. Christians changed from discouraging military participation to blessing it. Christians pursued the emperor's favor to persecute pagans, Jews, and other Christian sects with different beliefs. Constantine's desire to have Christian advisors in his entourage caused some Christians to begin identifying the Roman Empire as God's kingdom on earth. Rather than strict obedience to the teachings of Christ, Christendom came to lower the requirements for all, while the zealous left, pursued monasticism whether as isolated hermits or in communities. [1] Scholars point out that the “Edict of Milan” was really a letter sent from Nicomedia. [2] More quotations in David Bercot, Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs. [3] Preston Sprinkle, Fight (Colorado Springs, CO: David C Cook, 2013), 212-3.

One of the most important battles within the Roman Empire, the Battle of the Milvian Bridge is also famous as a defining moment in Christian history. In this episode of Bow & Blade, Michael and Kelly examine how Emperor Constantine I defeated his rival Maxentius on 28 October 312. 

ST. CATHERINE OF ALEXANDRIA l PATRONESS OF UNMARRIED WOMEN, APOLOGISTS AND STUDENTS Feast Day: NOVEMBER 25 Our saint for today lived during the period when Alexandria, Egypt was one of the finest cities of the world, a center of faith, learning and culture, and a bustling part of the Roman Empire. She was declared patroness of unmarried women, apologists and students. St. Catherine of Alexandria was born a princess in the year 287. Her father was Costis, half-brother of Constantine and her mother was Queen Sabinella of Egypt. At age 14, she became a Christian, was educated and reputed as an avid scholar of philosophy. When Emperor Maximian of the Roman Empire, A Christian persecutor died, he was succeeded by his son, Maxentius, who also hated the Christians. Catherine, being a part of the nobility, had the courage to rebuke the Emperor of his cruelty. Enraged, Maxentius gathered 50 of his best pagan scholars to debate with Catherine. Catherine won the debate and many of the spectators, including the wife of Maxentius, became Christians, but they were at once put to death. To avenge himself of the defeat of his men, Maxentius had Catherine put to jail and scourged. While in jail, she was not given food, but a dove came to her daily to feed her, and an angel tended her wounds. Jesus Himself appeared to console her in her great sufferings. Unable to persuade Catherine to deny her faith through torture and imprisonment, Maxentius tried to flatter her saying that she could become a beautiful empress for him. But Catherine answered him outright that her only Spouse was Jesus.At this, the Emperor became so angry that he ordered Catherine to be killed on a spiked wheel, wherein the limbs of the victim were inserted into the spikes and when the wheel rolled, the victim's bones break into pieces. When the wheel was brought to Catherine, she touched it and it shattered into pieces, and an angel caused it to burst into flame. With great ferocity, Maxentius ordered that Catherine be decapitated and she died by having her head chopped off. The historicity of Catherine was often questioned by a few scholars, who believed that she was a legend. But more than a thousand years after her martyrdom, St. Joan of Arc identified her as among the saints who counselled her to become a soldier and fight for France. The development of her cult was spurred by the discovery of her body and relics at the foot of Mt. Sinai, some 491 kilometers away, about the year 800 A.D. Traditions say, and it is approved by the Church, that her body was brought to Mt. Sinai by angels. Emperor Justinian, a Christian, established in the 6th century the St. Catherine's Monastery in Egypt, a convent for monks of the Orthodox Church. St. Catherine died at age 18 in the year 305. Her feast day is November 25. St. Catherine, glorious Virgin and Martyr, resplendent in the luster of wisdom and purity; thy wisdom refuted the adversaries of Divine truth and covered them with confusion; thy immaculate purity made thee a spouse of Christ. Help me to make progress in the love of God and in the practice of holy purity that I may be victorious in fighting evil and at my death be conducted by the angels into the eternal beatitude of Heaven. Amen." Can I have the courage to refute the many falsehood, myths, misinformation, misconceptions and fallacy regarding morality and sexual relationships in our present society?

Part 6 All Change Under Constantine! Last time we looked briefly at two main enemies from within the church: systemic disorganization and chaos within leadership and structure of churches and false and heretical teaching which was creeping in surreptitiously. We move on today to a landmark period in the life of the church. Remember that one of the main persecutors of the Church was the Roman Empire. Now we come to the Emperor Constantine. This period is described by Diarmaid MacCulloch as “crucial for the Christian Church” (A History of Christianity). Constantine was pronounced as Emperor by the Army in 306AD following the death of his father, Constantius 1. Under the rule of Diocletian, the Empire had been reorganized into a team of 4 emperors under his leadership. However civil war soon re-commenced. During this time at the battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, Constantine overthrew his rival, Maxentius, and became the Emperor of the Western Empire. He had been a worshipper of the 'Unconquered Sun', but before this battle he saw a vision of the cross of Christ and had a dream commanding his soldiers to fight under the name of Jesus Christ. He made his soldiers shields with a monogram of Christ, the first 2 letters of Christ's name in Greek. Constantine went on to restore property to the church in his domain which had been confiscated by previous Roman emperors. Then in 313AD Constantine and his ally, Licinius, made a proclamation whereby those identified as Christians would be treated equally with those who were not Christians. This proclamation also declared a new policy of toleration for all religions throughout all the Roman Empire. FF Bruce writes in The Spreading Flame “This led to Christians once banished to return from exile. Their property was restored; their demolished church edifices rebuilt. The last round between Christianity and Roman paganism had been the most desperate of all; but it ended with the acknowledgement that Christianity had won.” Constantine, according to Shelley in his book "Church History in Plain Language", also made many changes in his private life. This including raising his family as a Christian family. He was baptized by Bishop Eusebius of Nicomedia. After his Baptist, he refused to wear the imperial purple again and chose to wear his baptismal robes. He died shortly after in 337AD but not before establishing Constantinople as a new capital of the Roman world. A quick look at the historical writing of Eusebius sees Constantine epitomised as an superlative Christian leader and almost envisages a new age of salvation! Here are some of the ways Eusebius describes Constantine from his writings. “Constantine, the mightiest victor, adorned with every virtue of piety…” “For Constantine, like an all-gracious emperor, giving him evidences of true favour…” “God was the friend, protector, and guardian of Constantine, and bringing the plots which had been formed in secrecy and darkness to the light, he foiled them.” Constantine was “the protector of the virtuous, mingling hatred for evil with love for good, went forth with his son Crispus, a most beneficent prince, and extended a saving right hand to all that were perishing.” Constantine brought both significant advantages and disadvantages for Christianity. These include: Advantages for Christianity. Religious tolerance and freedom Restoration of church property - a major church building program by the Emperor e.g. St. Peters Basilica in Rome. Christianity became the favoured religion in the Empire, since Constantine was at the very least nominally Christian. In 312 AD he declared Sunday a holiday. Disadvantages for Christianity. Christianity became nominal, and it was fashionable to be called a Christian. Many pagan ideas were intermingled with Christianity - incense, images, candles, vestments, veneration of saints & martyrs, and Mary idolised like a goddess. The emperor exercised his authority in the church as head of the Roman religion, Pontifus Maximus. This set an unfortunate precedent for involvement of government in Christianity which we will see later causes great trouble for the church and Christianity. While Constantine did not enforce others to join Christianity, that didn't last long. After Constantine's death, belief in Christianity was made a matter of imperial command under the regime of the emperor Theodosius. He had new church buildings designed in order to stress the new hierarchy of Jesus Christ and the Roman emperor. There were also heavy penalties enforced upon those who were not Christians and from other religions. Theodosius enforced the thinking that the there was a close connection between the will of God, his own will and a connection with the Roman empire. How does the church itself react to all this? How was the thinking and theology of the church growing and/or adapting? Well for the answer to that, you will have to wait until the next Podcast! Tap or lick here to save this as an audio mp3 file

Part 2 of 2In October 312, Roman Emperors Constantine I and Maxentius clashed at the Battle of Milvian Bridge to decide who would become the sole ruler of the Roman Empire.  Prior to the battle, Constantine reportedly has a vision of a Christian symbol and the message "under this sign conquer". Eventually, Constantine would make Christianity the "official" religion of the Empire.How would things have differed if Constantine had not led this change?You can follow A Fork In Time on….Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aforkintimeTwitter: @AFITPodcastPinterest: www.pinterest.com/aforkintimeOur YouTube ChannelIf you enjoy the podcast and want to support it financially, you can help by:Supporting us monthly via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/aforkintime....or, make a one-time donation via Podfan to A Fork In Time or The Room Where It HappenedWebsite: www.aforkintimepodcast.comE-Mail: aforkintimepodcast@gmail.comDirect Link to Listener Survey: https://www.aforkintimepodcast.com/listenersurveyCheck Out The Room Where It Happened, our other podcast where the focus is on "real" history:https://www.aforkintimepodcast.com/theroomwhereithappenedTheme Music: Conquer by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.comSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/aforkintime)

Part 1 of 2In October 312, Roman Emperors Constantine I and Maxentius clashed at the Battle of Milvian Bridge to decide who would become the sole ruler of the Roman Empire.  Prior to the battle, Constantine reportedly has a vision of a Christian symbol and the message "under this sign conquer". Eventually, Constantine would make Christianity the "official" religion of the Empire.How would things have differed if Constantine had not led this change?You can follow A Fork In Time on….Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aforkintimeTwitter: @AFITPodcastPinterest: www.pinterest.com/aforkintimeOur YouTube ChannelIf you enjoy the podcast and want to support it financially, you can help by:Supporting us monthly via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/aforkintime....or, make a one-time donation via Podfan to A Fork In Time or The Room Where It HappenedWebsite: www.aforkintimepodcast.comE-Mail: aforkintimepodcast@gmail.comDirect Link to Listener Survey: https://www.aforkintimepodcast.com/listenersurveyCheck Out The Room Where It Happened, our other podcast where the focus is on "real" history:https://www.aforkintimepodcast.com/theroomwhereithappenedTheme Music: Conquer by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.comSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/aforkintime)

This Revelation Timeline Decoded Bible study guide audio covers the sixth seal of Revelation 6. Earthquakes in the prophecy represent great political upheavals. Eastern Emperor Constantine defeated Diocletian's army in 312 AD, which ended the persecutions. Diocletian (the Sun) was so panic stricken, he died insane. Constantine defeated emperors Maxentius and Licinius to become sole ruler of both west and east by 324 AD. The Roman leaders (stars) fell and their power receded as a scroll. The mountains and islands that were moved out of place, were the countries and people that were affected by this political change.On the Revelation Timeline Decoded website are summary PDF's and the Revelation Timeline Layers Chart graphic. You can request a Revelation Timeline Decoded Summary PDF or order a copy of the printed book which explains the fulfillment in detail.#revelationsixthseal #revelation6thseal #revelation6

After an overview of the three Raphael Rooms that followed the Stanza della Segnatura, we focus today on the Hall or Sala of Constantine, the first Christian Emperor.

Molly interviews author Simon Turney about his new book, "Sons of Rome" Order "Sons of Rome" from Amazon at this link: https://amzn.to/3whsnxb   ABOUT "SONS OF ROME" Four Emperors. Two Friends. One Destiny. As twilight descends on the 3rd century AD, the Roman Empire is but a shadow of its former self. Decades of usurping emperors, splinter kingdoms, and savage wars have left the people beleaguered, the armies weary and the future uncertain. And into this chaos Emperor Diocletian steps, reforming the succession to allow for not one emperor to rule the world, but four. Meanwhile, two boys share a chance meeting in the great city of Treverorum as Diocletian's dream is announced to the imperial court. Throughout the years that follow, they share heartbreak and glory as that dream sours and the empire endures an era of tyranny and dread. Their lives are inextricably linked, their destinies ever-converging as they rise through Rome's savage stations, to the zenith of empire. For Constantine and Maxentius, the purple robes beckon.   Get your own Read Between the Lines T-Shirt, Mug, Mask, and more at our Tee Public Shop. https://bit.ly/3u4zkk9 Please be sure to rate us and review this episode wherever you listen to podcasts.  It really helps other people find us.    Follow the show on Instagram at readbetweenthelinespodcast Follow our parent network on Twitter at @SMGPods Make sure to follow SMG on Facebook too at @SouthgateMediaGroup Learn more, subscribe, or contact Southgate Media Group at www.southgatemediagroup.com.   Check out our webpage at southgatemediagroup.com/readbwetweenthelines

Constantine is the central figure in the transformation of the entire Roman Empire from pagan to Christian in the fourth century, but why he initiated this dramatic change is still disputed both by historians and in the art that remembers him. Today we examine the Arch of Constantine to see what it might be able to tell us about the mystery man it honors.

We are continuing a series of episodes comparing Jesus to superheroes. This series will tackle wrong ideas about Jesus from church history in chronological order. A superhero will represent each of these ideas. Is Jesus Like Thor? We answer this question by answering the following: Who is Thor? What are things that Jesus and Thor seem to have in common? What does it mean for Jesus to be the "Son of God"? What is Arianism and Subordinationism? This episode is part 1 of answering this question because there is a lot of history to cover. This episode discusses the following: The major Christian persecutions from the first through the fourth centuries The rise of Constantine as emperor of the whole Roman empire Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge The conflict between team Alexander and team Arius over Christology in Alexandria, Egypt Arius' teachings in his poem Thalia. Constantine's letter to Alexander and Arius to stop arguing The start of the Council of Nicea in 325 AD. Scriptures Referenced: John 16:2 John 3:16 1 Corinthians 13:8,13 Matthew 11:27 John 6:46 John 10:15 John 14:9 Hebrews 1:3 Sources Cited: Scott Smith, "https://www.thescottsmithblog.com/2017/11/is-thor-myth-based-on-jesus.html (Is the Thor Myth Based on Jesus?)" Wisconsin Lutheran College, "https://www.fourthcentury.com/arius-thalia-intro/ (Arius - Thalia)," "Fourth Century Christianity." Ibid., "https://www.fourthcentury.com/urkunde-17/ (Documents of the Early Arian Controversy – Emperor Constantine to Alexander of Alexandria and Arius)," "Fourth Century Christianity." ***** Like what you hear? https://www.truthspresso.com/donate (Donate) to Truthspresso and give a shot of support! *****

Full Text of ReadingsSaturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 310All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. Marcellus, PopeNothing of Marcellus' life beforehis papacy has survived the centuries. He became Pope at the end of the persecutions of Diocletian in aound308-309. The persecutions had disrupted the Church so much that there had been a gap of over a year with no Pope. Once he was elected, he faced several challenges, including reconsituting the clergy, which had been decimated and whose remnant had practiced their vocation only covertly and with the expectation of martyrdom. He worked hard to recover and welcome back all who had denied the faith in order to keep from being murdered.When a group of the apostacized, known as the Lapsi, refused to do penance, Marcellus refused to allow their return to the Church. The Lapsi hada bit ofpolitical pull, and some members caused such civil disruption that emperor Maxentius exiled the Pope in order to settle the matter. Legend says that Marcellus was forced to work as a stable slave as punishment, but this appears to be fiction, however we do know that he died of the terrible conditions he suffered in exile, and is considered a martyr because of that.He was initially buried in the cemetery of Saint Priscilla in Rome, buthis relics were later transferred to beneath the altar of San Marcello al Corso Church in Rome where they remain today. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Full Text of ReadingsWednesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 505All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. Catherine of AlexandriaCatholics and other Christians around the world celebrate today, Nov. 25, the memorial of St. Catherine of Alexandria, a revered martyr of the fourth century.St. Catherine was the subject of great interest and devotion among later medieval Christians. Devotees relished tales of her rejection of marriage, her rebuke to an emperor, and her decision to cleave to Christ even under threat of torture. Pope John Paul II restored the celebration of her memorial to the Roman Catholic calendar in 2002.Catherine's popularity as a figure of devotion, during an era of imaginative hagiography, has obscured the facts of her life. It is likely that she was of noble birth, a convert to Christianity, a virgin by choice (before the emergence of organized monasticism), and eventually a martyr for the faith. Accounts of Catherine's life also agree on the location where she was born, educated, and bore witness to her faith. The Egyptian city of Alexandria was a center of learning in the ancient world, and tradition represents Catherine as the highly educated daughter of a noble pagan family. It is said that a vision of the Virgin Mary and the child Jesus spurred her conversion, and the story has inspired works of art which depict her decision to live as a virginal spouse of Christ. The Emperor Maxentius ruled Egypt during Catherine's brief lifetime, a period when multiple co-emperors jointly governed the Roman Empire. During this time, just before the Emperor Constantine's embrace and legalization of Christianity, the Church was growing but also attracting persecution.Catherine, eager to defend the faith she had embraced, came before Maxentius to protest a brutal campaign against the Church. At first, the emperor decided to try and persuade her to renounce Christ. But in a debate that the emperor proceeded to arrange between Catherine and a number of pagan philosophers, Catherine prevailed with her skillful apologetics converting them instead. Maxentius' next stratagem involved an offer to make her his mistress. She not only rebuffed the emperor, but also reportedly convinced his wife to be baptized. Enraged by Catherine's boldness and resolve, the Emperor resolved to break her will through torture on a spiked wheel.Tradition holdsthat she was miraculously freed from the wheel, either before or during torture. Finally, she was beheaded.Maxentius later died in a historic battle against his Co-Emperor Constantine in October of 312, after which he was remembered disdainfully, if at all. St. Catherine, meanwhile, inspired generations of philosophers, consecrated women, and martyrs. Ironically, or perhaps appropriately given both her embrace of virginity, and her mystic marriage to Christ young women in many Western European countries were once known to seek her intercession in finding their husbands. Regrettably, the torture wheel to which she herself may have been subjected was subsequently nicknamed the Catherine wheel, and used even among Christian kingdoms.Today, St. Catherine of Alexandria is more appropriately known as the namesake of a monastery at Mount Sinai that claims to be the oldest in the world. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Construction of the New Basilica began under the emperor Maxentius in the year 308 but was completed by emperor Constantine in 312 after his victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. Indeed, the change in ruler during its building means that this is sometimes referred the Basilica of Maxentius or the Basilica of Constantine. The term Basilica in modern usage suggests a large church or cathedral but in ancient Rome it was more associated with a large civic chamber or meeting hall.  It would have contained statues of gods but was not likely a place of worship.  The Basilica's 3 large bays that dominate the north side of the Via Sacra faced onto a large central nave and were mirrored by another set of 3 matching bays on the South side. These bays had large windows to help light the halls and the ends each bay’s dividing support wall originally had a massive marble column 14.5 meters high and roughly 1 meter wide. All but one of these 8 columns were destroyed – the last remaining was removed by Pope Paul V in the early 1600s and placed in La Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore where it still stands. 

The Temple of Divus Romulus is recognizable as a tall round building on the North side of the Via Sacra. From the name you can be forgiven for thinking that this temple is dedicated to Romulus the legendary founder and first king of Rome. Instead the association comes from the theory that this is the temple dedicated to Marcus Aurelius Romulus co-consul who died at the age of 14 in the year 309. His father, the Emperor Maxentius, dedicated a Temple in this area and commissioned a series of commemorative coins which showed a domed shrine with one of the doors ajar, and an eagle on top.  The temple was probably part of a larger rebuilding program undertaken by Maxentius following a disastrous fire in 306. The project was only partially complete when Maxentius died in the Battle of the Milvian Bridge while defending Rome against Emperor Constantine and his invading troops.  What remains is the main entrance to a 4th Century Temple the front of which was originally flanked by two halls who’s remnants are hinted at by the surrounding brickwork and columns. The current street level is much lower than when the temple was constructed so we can see a lot of the exposed footings. Much of the façade has gone but sufficient remains to have a sense of the curving front with niches for 2 statues on each side of the main entrance door. The columns and carvings are mostly repurposed materials from older constructions. 

The arch was erected by the Roman Senate to commemorate emperor Constantine's victory over emperor Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge which had taken place on October 28 in the year 312.  This tour gives the context for the rich details shown on the arch and explores the deeper history of why two Emperors ended-up waging war on each-other.

The Emperor Constantine I, better known as Constantine the Great, is one of the most significant emperors in Roman history. His later Christian biographers lauded him as an icon, the man who set in motion Rome's dramatic transformation into a primarily Christian empire. And yet Constantine's own beliefs were deliberately ambiguous, as Professor David Potter explained. He learned from Diocletian, he witnessed the mistakes and the successes. He figured out how to heal divisions in the empire, but at the same time restore it to one man rule through blood and battle. Constantine's military and administrative successes are often-overlooked, but these in themselves were extraordinary. In this podcast David and I chatted through Constantine's remarkable life, his legacy and why you wouldn't rate your chances of survival if you were part of his family.David is the author of 'Constantine the Emperor'.Some notes from the pod:Galerius - A Roman emperor between 305 and 311(Valerius) Severus - Galerius' preferred candidate to become the new Augustus in the west in 306, following the death of Constantius (Constantine's father). He was opposed by Constantine.The Wall - Hadrian's WallThe Chi Rho - a Christian symbol, but also a symbol of good fortune. Constantine painted the symbol on his soldiers' shields at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge.Lactantius - an early Christian author who talked about the Battle of the Milvian Bridge.Maximinus Daia - ruled alongside Licinius in the east. Formed an alliance with Maxentius against Licinius and Constantine. Defeated by Licinius.Licinius - ruler of the eastern part of the Roman Empire. Co-ruled the Empire with Constantine for a while (doesn't end well!). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A new MP3 sermon from Christ Reformed Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Eusebius, EH.9.9: Constantine Defeats the Tyrant Maxentius Subtitle: Eusebius, Church History Speaker: Jeff Riddle Broadcaster: Christ Reformed Baptist Church Event: Podcast Date: 9/17/2020 Length: 18 min.

The Glorious Revolution occurred about three and a half years after James II ascended to the English throne. People had been concerned about how James might change the government, but not enough to do anything significant for several years. Why did it work out that way, how common is such a period (i.e. between a change and its resolution) and what might it tell us about our current political situation? ================ The Diary of John Evelyn includes some up-to-the-minute reactions to the events of 1688 (e.g. “10th June, 1688. A YOUNG PRINCE born, which will cause disputes.”) http://www.gutenberg.org/files/42081/42081-h/42081-h.htm There's also a bit in the diary about meeting with an 11-year-old prodigy. Asked if the recent revolution was comparable to anything he had heard of, he gives the example of Constantine the Great and Maxentius - a Roman emperor with a 6 year reign ending in 312.   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maxentius The diary also has the specific intended mention of  the bishops in England who thought the events  of the Revolution were what was foretold in the Revelation of St. John - see 26 April 1689 for details. Here's the paper that pointed me to John Evelyn and his observations at the time. https://www.jstor.org/stable/4091697 Revelation 13:5 King James Version (KJV) 5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. "The History of England from the Accession of James II" came up in one of my searches. No guarantee of anything except that it may be of use  to anyone wanting another view of that period. https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2439/2439-h/2439-h.htm 'The King explicitly avowed to the ministers of those continental powers with which he had lately intended to ally himself, that all his views had undergone a change, and that England was still to be, as she had been under his grandfather, his father, and his brother, of no account in Europe. "I am in no condition," he said to the Spanish Ambassador, "to trouble myself about what passes abroad. It is my resolution to let foreign affairs take their course, to establish my authority at home, and to do something for my religion.”' One of my older tweets on why this next month (July 2020) might be interesting: https://twitter.com/generationalize/status/1097257156712136706 Included for timeline, although I don't agree with the conclusion, since James II did not appear to be motivated by increased religious freedom. https://www.nationalreview.com/2019/07/glorious-revolution-conservatives-should-not-celebrate-religious-tyranny/  After recording, found that James II's queen was  Mary of Modena, which is probably rarely mentioned in narratives of the Revolution because having two different Marys in the story is ... confusing.  The outro is the end of Johnny Cash's The Man Comes Around, the title track from his fourth and final American Records recording. It's quoting from the 6th chapter of Revelation, which seems appropriate given all the rest. Yes, there's a very obvious edit about 10 minutes in, where I had to insert the word "three" to describe how many centuries since the Glorious Revolution. We regret the error. I can be found on Twitter @generationalize, and occasionally blogging at crisis.generationalize.com  

Constantine experiences a vision in the sky assuring him of victory and longevity. Later during the final confrontation with Maxentius in Italy, Constantine has a dream which leads him to re-interpret the vision and look to the Christian God as his divine patron. Music “Sons of Constantinople” by Tyler Cunningham, licensed under Pond5. HistoryoftheEarlyChurch.wordpress.com HistoryoftheEarlyChurch@gmail.com Facebook.com/EarlyChurchPodcast

The accessions of Constantine and then Maxentius lead to an official end to the Great Persecution in the western provinces. However peace continues to elude both Church and State. Maxentius' usurpation triggers a civil war while factional violence erupts within the Churches of Rome and Africa. Music “Sons of Constantinople” by Tyler Cunningham, licensed under Pond5. HistoryoftheEarlyChurch.wordpress.com HistoryoftheEarlyChurch@gmail.com Facebook.com/EarlyChurchPodcast

First, on the eve of Constantine’s victory over Maxentius and the birth of Christendom as the state religion of the Roman Empire, Steve, Lukas, and Ken look at a trio of Hall of Fame catchers noted for their faith in Promote, Extend, Trade. Next, they address the conclusion of the Arizona Fall League and review how the players that the Mets sent did. After, they review the Columbia Fireflies 2019 season. Expectations were high, but the team and its players didn’t quite live up to them. Lastly, Steve chats with his brother and the two discuss their down to Columbia this past summer. As always, you can listen or subscribe to the podcast through Apple Podcasts, where we encourage you to leave a review if you enjoy the show. It really helps! And you can find us on the Stitcher app, Spotify, or listen wherever you get podcasts. Got questions? Comments? Concerns? You can email the show at fromcomplextoqueens@gmail.com, and follow us on Twitter: Steve (@stevesypa), Ken (@kenlavin91), and Lukas (@lvlahos343). Until next week, #lovethemets #lovethemets! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Constantine defeats his rival Maxentius for control of Italy, leaving him with one final rival blocking the way to complete control of the Roman Empire. The battle of Chrysopolis decides the fate of the realm, establishing Constantine as sole ruler. Constantine thereafter cements his place in history by effectively shaping the course of Christianity through edicts, sanctions, and other policies, and by favoring the movement with many gifts.

It was the evening of October 27, 312 A.D. Constantine was going into battle the next day against Maxentius. It is called The Battle of the Milvian Bridge, which was an important route over the Tiber, the third-longest river in Italy. The battle would determine whether Constantine or Maxentius would be the Emperor.

Episode 2 of Rush Hour History ushers in the humble beginnings of the Byzantine Empire along with the man responsible for building it. Fraught with twists, backstabbings, some bribery, and midnight hangings in the marital suite the empire is off to a rocky start.

This is the first episode of the premium series! October 28, 312. The Battle of Milvian Bridge. Conny wins and marches into Rome, with the head of Maxentius carried on a spike. Just like Jesus would have done. Arianism started in Alexandria. It's named after Arius, a pretty popular and charismatic priest who believed that […] The post Episode 5 – A Quarrel Over Unimportant Points appeared first on The Renaissance Times.

This is the first episode of the premium series! October 28, 312. The Battle of Milvian Bridge. Conny wins and marches into Rome, with the head of Maxentius carried on a spike. Just like Jesus would have done. Another thing Conny does to emulate his lord and saviour, is to have Maxentius' family all killed. […] The post Episode 4 – I Have The Power! appeared first on The Renaissance Times.

This week the son of mighty Maximian is under the microscope. Does Maxentius live up to his father? or even go beyond? He is not invited to the Tetrachic Party and he is not happy. Find out how the simple garden pea can masterfully be deployed as a metaphor for the pursuit for power.   Also: We say goodbye to the Praetorian Guard, so we look back and decide on the best Praetorian Prefect.

Constantine marches his army through the Alps to attack Maxentius. To support the show: www.rhinecast.com/donate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhinecast/?fref=ts Twitter: @rhinecast Email: rhinecast@gmail.com

View a picture of the Amphitheatre at Carthage, the likely martyr site of Perpetua and Felicitas). Continue to explore the physical opposition and major persecutions of Christians during this time. Decius (249-251 AD) had a big impact and wanted to preserve classical culture. He ordered everyone to make sacrifices to the Emperor and those who did were provided with a libellus, which was a receipt or proof of the sacrifices. Christians had no libellus and the Bishop of Rome was executed. Valerian (253-260 AD) ordered similar decrees that all Christians had to sacrifice to the Emperor. Cyprian of Carthage was martyred during this time in 258 AD. During the reign of Gallienus (260-268 AD), persecutions seem to die down. He was the first Emperor to issue an edict of toleration. Christianity was still illegal but decriminalized. Explore the tetrarchy established by Diocletian (284–305 AD). He divided the Empire into two parts, East and West. Each part had a Ruler and a deputy or lieutenant ruler. In the West, his lieutenant, Maximian Augustus, was in charge. Diocletian took over the Eastern part. Under Maximian Augustus was Constantius I in the West and under Diocletian in the East was Galerius, who did not like Christians. The Great Persecution began in 297-301. What was the spark? Galerius was the reason Diocletian persecuted Christians. He issued four edicts and each ratcheted up persecutions. In February 303 AD, churches and books were destroyed. In mid-year 303 AD, the clergy was imprisoned. In November 303 AD, amnesty was offered to Christians who would sacrifice to the Roman gods. In the spring of 304 AD, everyone had to sacrifice or face death. Some Christians responded by burning the emperor’s palace in Nicomedia. Diocletian responded by making 268 Christians martyrs. What were the types of punishments for persecuted Christians? They were thrown into cages with wild animals, had their eyes gouged out, were beheaded, crucified, and had molten lead poured down their throats. Consider Hebrews 11:25-27. Diocletian retired in 305 AD and forced Maximian to retire also. Galerius, his lieutenant took over the East and continued the persecution of Diocletian. Constantius ruled over the West and took a far less brutal path. He did not execute people, but he did burn various churches. What were the results of this persecution? This heroism brought new converts and attracted people to the faith. Many in the crowds watching had sympathy. In 311 AD, Galerius, in the East changed his mind (a politically expedient move) and issued an edict of toleration. Christianity was once again a religio licita (legal religion). The edict ended by asking the Christians to pray for the empire. When Constantius I died, his son, Constantine defeated Maxentius in 312 AD at the battle of Milvian Bridge for control. How does this relate theologically to us today? Jesus tells us, “If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.”(Luke 9:23) We also read in Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Explore the background of the 4th Century in which there was chaos. The Great Persecution happened under Diocletian (284-305 AD) around 297-301 AD. Explore the Tetrarchy with the Eastern Empire ruled by Diocletian and Galerius, and the Western Empire ruled by Maximian Augustus and Constantius. Galerius provoked Diocletian into persecuting the Christians. Diocletian retired in 304 AD and insisted that Maximian retire as well. Galerius took over for Diocletian and Constantius took over for Maximian. Galerius continued the persecution. Constantius did not think Christians should be persecuted so did not pursue Christians. Eventually Galerius concedes defeat since the public was not unifying but actually dividing. Galerius issued the Edict of Toleration. Consider Eusebius’ response. Christianity became a religio licita (a legal religion) once again. Constantine was in Britain when his father died and he claimed to be the rightful successor to the throne. Maxentius also claimed the throne. There was a political and physical battle going on but also a spiritual battle. Constantine had a conversion experience in which the Labarum symbol (Chi-Rho) appeared and so it was used on the shields of his men during the battle at Milvian Bridge where he defeated Maxentius. Constantine was theologically confused from the start. Consider Henry Chadwick’s description of Constantine. Constantine never left this syncretic faith. The Arch of Constantine marks the spot of the Battle of Milvian Bridge. Constantine took control of the Western Empire, formed an alliance with Licinius, and agreed to no more persecution of Christians through the Edict of Milan. Was all well and everyone living in peace? Not exactly. Distant rulers such as Maximinus Daia who ruled the furthest eastern part of the Empire carried on the persecution but was eventually overthrown by Licinius. Constantine and Licinius had a complex friendship or relationship. There was distrust between them and in 324 AD Constantine overthrew Licinius. Constantine became the sole ruler of the entire Empire and desired unity.

The Amateur Traveler talks to Andy Steves about Rome, Italy. Andy talks about practical issues like how to get into and around Rome, how to connect to the Rome of the Roman Empire (the Coloseum, Forum and Circus Maximus, Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine, Pantheon). He also talks about a tour of the Sistine Chapel without all the crowds and not easy to do. Andy also gives us his favorite spots from Renaissance Rome like the Galleria Borghese and how to get under Saint Peter's to the excavation of older Saint Peter's. Follow Andy to places where you can meet modern Romans on your evening passeggiata to Campo di Fiori, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. And then meet one of his favorite Romans who runs a hang out for students near the Pantheon.Andy is the son of travel author and tour guide operator Rick Steves and is following in his father's footsteps running weekend tours for students studying in Europe.

The Amateur Traveler talks to Andy Steves about Rome, Italy. Andy talks about practical issues like how to get into and around Rome, how to connect to the Rome of the Roman Empire (the Coloseum, Forum and Circus Maximus, Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine, Pantheon). He also talks about a tour of the Sistine Chapel without all the crowds and not easy to do. Andy also gives us his favorite spots from Renaissance Rome like the Galleria Borghese and how to get under Saint Peter's to the excavation of older Saint Peter's. Follow Andy to places where you can meet modern Romans on your evening passeggiata to Campo di Fiori, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. And then meet one of his favorite Romans who runs a hang out for students near the Pantheon.Andy is the son of travel author and tour guide operator Rick Steves and is following in his father's footsteps running weekend tours for students studying in Europe.

The Amateur Traveler talks to Andy Steves about Rome, Italy. Andy talks about practical issues like how to get into and around Rome, how to connect to the Rome of the Roman Empire (the Coloseum, Forum and Circus Maximus, Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine, Pantheon). He also talks about a tour of the Sistine Chapel without all the crowds and not easy to do. Andy also gives us his favorite spots from Renaissance Rome like the Galleria Borghese and how to get under Saint Peter's to the excavation of older Saint Peter's. Follow Andy to places where you can meet modern Romans on your evening passeggiata to Campo di Fiori, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. And then meet one of his favorite Romans who runs a hang out for students near the Pantheon.Andy is the son of travel author and tour guide operator Rick Steves and is following in his father's footsteps running weekend tours for students studying in Europe.

The Amateur Traveler talks to Andy Steves about Rome, Italy. Andy talks about practical issues like how to get into and around Rome, how to connect to the Rome of the Roman Empire (the Coloseum, Forum and Circus Maximus, Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine, Pantheon). He also talks about a tour of the Sistine Chapel without all the crowds and not easy to do. Andy also gives us his favorite spots from Renaissance Rome like the Galleria Borghese and how to get under Saint Peter's to the excavation of older Saint Peter's. Follow Andy to places where you can meet modern Romans on your evening passeggiata to Campo di Fiori, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. And then meet one of his favorite Romans who runs a hang out for students near the Pantheon.Andy is the son of travel author and tour guide operator Rick Steves and is following in his father's footsteps running weekend tours for students studying in Europe.

On October 28, 312 AD Constantine and Maxentius fought a battle at Rome's doorstep for control of the Western Empire.

Less than two years after Diocletian's abdication, the Tetrarchy was left in shambles following the power plays of Constantine and Maxentius.

Professor Kleiner characterizes third-century Rome as an "architectural wasteland" due to the rapid change of emperors, continuous civil war, and a crumbling economy. There was no time to build and the only major architectural commission was a new defensive wall. The crisis came to an end with the rise of Diocletian, who created a new form of government called the Tetrarchy, or four-man rule, with two leaders in the East and two in the West. Diocletian and his colleagues instituted a major public and private building campaign in Rome and the provinces, which reflected the Empire's renewed stability. Professor Kleiner begins with Diocletian's commissions in Rome--a five-column monument dedicated to the tenth anniversary of the formation of the Tetrarchy, the restoration of the Curia or Senate House, and the monumental Baths of Diocletian. She then presents Diocletian's Palace at Split, designed as a military camp and including the emperor's octagonal mausoleum, followed by an overview of the palaces and villas of other tetrarchs in Greece and Sicily. Professor Kleiner concludes with the villa on the Via Appia in Rome belonging to Maxentius, son of a tetrarch, and the main rival of another tetrarch's son, Constantine the Great.

Professor Kleiner presents the architecture of Constantine the Great, the last pagan and first Christian emperor of Rome, who founded Constantinople as the "New Rome" in A.D. 324. She notes that Constantine began with commissions that were tied to the pagan past (the Baths of Constantine in Rome) but built others (the Aula Palatina at Trier) that looked to the Christian future. Professor Kleiner makes an impassioned case that some of the finest and most innovative Roman buildings date to the Constantinian period. The "Temple of Minerva Medica," a garden pavilion, for example, is decagonal in shape and the colossal Basilica Nova was inventively modeled on the frigidaria of Roman imperial bath complexes. In addition, the Arch of Constantine, a triple-bayed structure commemorating Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge, serves as a compendium of Constantine’s accomplishments in the context of those of the "good emperors" of the second century A.D. In conclusion, Professor Kleiner asserts that the transfer of the Empire's capital from Rome to Constantinople diminished Rome’s influence, at least temporarily, but not the impact of its architecture, which like the city of Rome itself, is eternal.

Professor Kleiner characterizes third-century Rome as an "architectural wasteland" due to the rapid change of emperors, continuous civil war, and a crumbling economy. There was no time to build and the only major architectural commission was a new defensive wall. The crisis came to an end with the rise of Diocletian, who created a new form of government called the Tetrarchy, or four-man rule, with two leaders in the East and two in the West. Diocletian and his colleagues instituted a major public and private building campaign in Rome and the provinces, which reflected the Empire's renewed stability. Professor Kleiner begins with Diocletian's commissions in Rome--a five-column monument dedicated to the tenth anniversary of the formation of the Tetrarchy, the restoration of the Curia or Senate House, and the monumental Baths of Diocletian. She then presents Diocletian's Palace at Split, designed as a military camp and including the emperor's octagonal mausoleum, followed by an overview of the palaces and villas of other tetrarchs in Greece and Sicily. Professor Kleiner concludes with the villa on the Via Appia in Rome belonging to Maxentius, son of a tetrarch, and the main rival of another tetrarch's son, Constantine the Great.

Professor Kleiner presents the architecture of Constantine the Great, the last pagan and first Christian emperor of Rome, who founded Constantinople as the "New Rome" in A.D. 324. She notes that Constantine began with commissions that were tied to the pagan past (the Baths of Constantine in Rome) but built others (the Aula Palatina at Trier) that looked to the Christian future. Professor Kleiner makes an impassioned case that some of the finest and most innovative Roman buildings date to the Constantinian period. The "Temple of Minerva Medica," a garden pavilion, for example, is decagonal in shape and the colossal Basilica Nova was inventively modeled on the frigidaria of Roman imperial bath complexes. In addition, the Arch of Constantine, a triple-bayed structure commemorating Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge, serves as a compendium of Constantine’s accomplishments in the context of those of the "good emperors" of the second century A.D. In conclusion, Professor Kleiner asserts that the transfer of the Empire's capital from Rome to Constantinople diminished Rome’s influence, at least temporarily, but not the impact of its architecture, which like the city of Rome itself, is eternal.

This week's episode is titled, “Keeping a Record”The first 3 Cs of Church History are at times a difficult puzzle to sort out because no coherent historical narrative was being kept.Luke's account in the Books of Acts recounts a time span of about 30 yrs & roughly narrates the spread of the Faith from Jerusalem to Rome. The next narrative doesn't come till the writings of the Christian historian Eusebius in the 4th C.  What we have for a period of over 200 yrs are the writings of the Fathers whose letters give little more than a thumbnail sketch of what was happening. We have to infer & assume a lot by picking up what facts we can about what was happening. As we've seen, the work of the Church Fathers focused mainly on providing pastoral & apologetic support.  Gaining an historical framework for this period comes from merging secular accounts of history with the commentary of the Fathers. But with the work of Eusebius at the opening of the 4th C, the narrative becomes significantly clearer.Eusebius began compiling his magnum opus of Church History in the 290's. Titled Ecclesiastical History, it's an attempt to provide a narrative of the Communion of the Saints from the Apostles to his time.Eusebius was born & raised in Caesarea on the coast of Israel. He was a student of the Christian leader Pamphilas, who was himself a student of the great Apologist Origen. Eusebius became the bishop at Caesarea in 313. He played a major role in the Council of Nicaea in 325, which we'll take a closer look at in a future episode.Eusebius is a key figure in the study of Church History because his Ecclesiastical History is the first work after Luke's to attempt an historical narrative of the Faith. He's also an important figure because of his close association with the Emperor Constantine.I want to quote the opening of Eusebius' narrative because it gives us a sense of the monumental nature of his work.  He knew he was attempting to reconstruct a narrative of the Church from scant resources.In Chapter 1, which he titled, “The Plan of the Work” he writes –It is my purpose to write an account of the successions of the holy apostles, as well as of the times which have elapsed from the days of our Savior to our own; and to relate the many important events which are said to have occurred in the history of the Church; and to mention those who have governed and presided over the Church in the most prominent parishes, and those who in each generation have proclaimed the divine word either orally or in writing.It is my purpose also to give the names and number and times of those who through love of innovation have run into the greatest errors, and, proclaiming themselves discoverers of knowledge falsely so-called, have like fierce wolves unmercifully devastated the flock of Christ. …But at the outset I must crave for my work the indulgence of the wise, for I confess that it is beyond my power to produce a perfect and complete history, and since I am the first to enter upon the subject, I am attempting to traverse as it were a lonely and untrodden path. I pray that I may have God as my guide and the power of the Lord as my aid, since I am unable to find even the bare footsteps of those who have traveled the way before me, except in brief fragments, in which some in one way, others in another, have transmitted to us particular accounts of the times in which they lived. From afar they raise their voices like torches, and they cry out, as from some lofty and conspicuous watch-tower, admonishing us where to walk and how to direct the course of our work steadily and safely.Having gathered therefore from the matters mentioned here and there by them whatever we consider important for the present work, and having plucked like flowers from a meadow the appropriate passages from ancient writers, we shall endeavor to embody the whole in an historical narrative. …This work seems to me of especial importance because I know of no ecclesiastical writer who has devoted himself to this subject; and I hope that it will appear most useful to those who are fond of historical research.Eusebius was unaware of any previous attempt to provide an historical narrative of the development of the Faith from the late 1st C to his time in the early 4th, a period of a little over 200 yrs. From a modern perspective, Eusebius' account might be considered suspect, relying as it does on tradition & at best fragmentary evidence. What must be remembered is the importance of that oral tradition and the accuracy of such transmission over long periods of time. Because the ancient world didn't possess cheap and plentiful means of recording information, it was dependent on oral tradition & rote memorization.  With the advent of the printing press and more economic media, the priority of the oral tradition declined. Eusebius had both written and oral source material to draw from. His work can be considered dependable, while subject to question when it leaned toward the ancient penchant for using history as propaganda.As we return to the narrative timeline of Church history we need to pick up the story with the reign of the Diocletian who presided over the last & in many ways worst round of persecution under the Roman emperors.Though Christians remember Diocletian for that, he was in truth one of the most effective of the Roman Emperors. By the time he came to the throne, the Roman Empire was a sprawling & unwieldy beast of a realm to rule. The City of Rome was an old & decayed relic of its former glory. So Diocletian moved his headquarters eastward to Nicomedia in Asia Minor, modern Turkey.  Instead of trying to exert control over the entire empire himself & solely, Diocletian appointed Maximian as co-emperor to rule the western half of the Empire from Rome while he ruled the East.One of the persistent problems that led to so much unrest in the recent decades was the question of succession; who would rule after the current emperor? To forestall that turmoil, Diocletian appointed dual successors for both himself & Maximian.  Flavius Constantius became Maximian's successor while Diocletian took on Galerius. This established what's known as the Tetrarchy.While Diocletian had no warm & fuzzy feelings for the followers of Christ, it was really his successor Galerius that urged him to launch a campaign of persecution. Galerius was a military commander who thought Christians made poor soldiers. He knew their loyalty was supremely to their God and thought they made for unreliable troops. Galerius was also a committed pagan who believed in the Roman deities. He attributed any setback for the Army & any of the regular natural disasters that shook the realm, to their displeasure that so many of Rome's subjects were turning to the new god on the block. So it was really at Galerius' urging Diocletian approved the severe measures taken against Christians and their churches.  When Diocletian retired to his villa to raise cabbages & turned the eastern half of the Empire over to Galerius, persecution increased.Eventually, Constantius replaced Maximian in the West, just as Galerius had assumed the mantle in the East. And Diocletian's tetrarchy began to unravel. Galerius decided he wanted to be sole ruler and abducted Constantius' son, Constantine who'd been named successor to his father in the West. When Constantius fell ill, Galerius granted Constantine permission to visit him.Constantius died, & Constantine demanded Galerius recognize him as his co-emperor. No doubt Galerius would have launched a military campaign against Constantine's bid for rule of the West, but Galerius himself was stricken with a deadly illness. On his deathbed, Galerius admitted his policy of persecution of Christians hadn't worked and rescinded his policy of oppression.In the West, Constantine's claim to his father's throne was contested by Maximian's son, Maxentius. The showdown between them is known as the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. Maxentius didn't want Constantine marching his troops into Rome so he tore down the Milvian Bridge after marching his troops across it to meet Constantine. Just in case the battle went against Maxentius, he had a temporary bridge built of a string of boats across the river.At this point, the story gets confused because there's been so many who've written about what happened and the reports are varied. On the day before the battle, Constantine prayed, most likely to the sun-god. As he did, he looked toward the sun & saw a cross. Then, either he saw the words or heard them spoken, “By this sign, Conquer.” That night while he slept, Jesus appeared to him in a dream, telling him to have his soldiers place a Christian symbol on their shields. The next morning, chalk was quickly passed round & the soldiers put what's called the Chiron on their shields. Chi & Rho are the first 2 letters of the Greek word Christos, Christ. In English it looks like a P on top of an X.When the 2 forces met, Constantine's veterans bested Maxentius' less experienced troops, who retreated to their makeshift bridge. While crossing, Maxentius fell into the water & drowned. Constantine then marched victoriously into Rome.A year later, he and his new co-emperor Licinius issued what's known as the Edict of Milan, which decreed an end to all religious persecution, not just of Christians, but all faiths. For Constantine, Jesus was now his divine patron & the cross, an emblem of shame & derision for generations, became instead—a kind of charm. Instead of being a symbol of Rome's brutality in executing its enemies, the cross became a symbol of Imperial power.Bishops began to be called priests as they gained parity with their peers in pagan temples. These Christian priests were shown special favors by Constantine. It didn't take long for the pagan priests to realize which way the winds of political favor were blowing. Many converted.Now à there's been much debate over the legitimacy of Constantine's conversion. Was he genuinely born again or was he just a savvy politician who recognized a trend he could co-opt and turn to his favor? People will disagree on this and my meager offering is unlikely to convince anyone. But I think Constantine was probably a genuine Christian. He certainly did some things after his conversion that are difficult to reconcile with a sincere faith, but we have to remember the moral base he grew up in as the son of a Caesar & as a general of Roman legions was very different from the Biblical morality that's shaped Western civilization.  Also, Constantine's actions which are so decidedly non-Christian, like murdering those who threatened his power, may have been rationalized not as personal acts so much as attempts to secure the peace & safety of the empire. I know that's a stretch, but when analyzing history, we need to be careful about judging people when we don't have at our disposal all the facts they did.If we could sit down with Constantine and say, “You shouldn't have executed that guy.” He could very well say something like, “Yes, as a Christian, I shouldn't have. You're right. But I didn't execute him out of personal anger or suspicion or mere selfishness. It really bothers me that I had to off him; but I discovered he was plotting to usurp my throne and it would have thrown the empire into years of civil war & chaos.” To which we'd reply,  “Well Constance, you need to trust God more. He'll protect you. He put you on the throne, He can keep you there.” And Constantine might reply, “Yeah, I considered that & I agree. But it's a tough call. You see, in terms of my personal life, I trust God. But when it comes to my role as Emperor, I need to make tough choices others who don't wield the power I do will understand.”Let's not forget that Constantine, while being a competent general & astute politician, was at best a novice believer.I share this little made-up discussion because it points up something we're going to encounter again & again in our review of the history of the Church. We look on past ages, on what they believed and the things they did, with an attitude of moral superiority because we wouldn't do the terrible things they did, or we assume would do some things they failed to. We need to be cautious with this attitude for the simple reason that when we take the time to listen to the voices of the past and let them explain themselves, we often come to a new appreciation for the difficulty of their lives & choices. We may not agree with them, but we at least realize in their own minds & hearts, they thought they were doing what was best.You make up your own mind about the genuineness of Constantine's faith, but let me encourage you to spend a little time looking up what Eusebius wrote about him and some of the tough decisions Constantine had to make during his reign.Some of the things regarded as incompatible with a genuine conversion is that he retained his title of Pontifex Maximus as the head of the state religious cult. He conceived & hatched political plots to remove enemies. He murdered those deemed a threat to his power.On the other hand, from 312 on, his favor of Christianity was quite public. He granted the same privileges to bishops, pagan priests enjoyed. He banned crucifixion & ended the punishment of criminals by using them in gladiatorial games. He made Sunday a holiday. His personal charity built several large churches. And his private life demonstrated a pretty consistent genuine faith. His children were brought up in the Church & he practiced marital fidelity, at least, as far as we know. That of course, was certainly NOT the case with previous Emperors or even the wider Roman nobility.Critics like to point to Constantine's delay of baptism to shortly before his death as evidence of a lack of faith. I suggest that it ought to be read exactly the opposite. Remember what we learned about baptism a few episodes back. In that time, it was believed after baptism, there were certain sins that couldn't be forgiven. So people delayed baptism to as close to death as possible, leaving little chance for commission of such a sin to occur. Following his baptism, Constantine never again donned the imperial purple of his office but instead wore only his white baptismal robes. That sounds like he was concerned to enter Heaven, not a casual disregard of it.Chief among Constantine's concerns upon taking control of the Empire was unity. It was unity & strength that had moved Diocletian to establish the tetrarchy. Decades of civil war as one powerful general after another seized control and beat down his challengers had desperately weakened & impoverished the realm. Now that Constantine ruled, he hoped the Church would help bring a new era of unity based on a vital & dynamic faith. It didn't take long before he realized the very thing he hoped would bring unity was itself fractured.When the Church was battered & beaten by imperial persecution, it was forced to be one. But when that pressure was removed, the theological cracks that had been developing for a while became immediately evident. Chief among them was the Donatist Controversy we recently considered. In 314 the Donatists appealed to Constantine to settle the issue on who could ordain elders.Think about what a momentous change this was! The church appealed to the civil authority to rule on a spiritual affair! By doing so, the Church asked for imperial sponsorship.At this point we need a robot to wave its arms manically & cry “Danger! Will Robinson, Danger!”Constantine knew this was not a decision he was capable of making on his own so he gathered some church leaders in Arles in the S of France to decide the issue. The Donatist bishops were outnumbered by the non-Donatists – so you know where this is going. They decided against the Donatists.Instead of accepting the decision, the Donatists called the leaders who opposed them corrupt and labeled the Emperor their lackey.  The Church split between the Donatist churches of North Africa and the rest who now looked to Constantine as their leader.As tensions rose, the Emperor sent troops to Carthage in 317 to enforce the installation of a pro-government bishop opposed by the Donatists. For the first but far from last time, Christians persecuted Christians. Opponents of Constantine were exiled from Carthage. After 4 years, he realized his strong arm tactics weren't working and withdrew his troops.We'll pick it up and this point next time.