Constantines Influence to Christianity Essay - 2517 Words

The history of religion continues to play an important role in defining why certain aspects of religion are the way they are today. Understanding religion’s history can also help one appreciate the importance, value, and determination that certain individuals went through in order for that particular religion to gain freedom and acceptance in society. Throughout history, Christianity has shown exactly this. By learning about its history, one can gain an understanding of how it emerged into being one of the most popular religions in the world. Furthermore, better understanding of the religion, both historically and contemporarily, can help dispel any negative preconceived notions about Christianity. In the first three centuries after†¦show more content†¦Constantine’s strong army defeated Maxentius, which lead to the end of the battle. Constantine could now enter Rome in triumph and success. Constantine’s success at the Milvian Bridge was definitely a battle that deserves praise because of his great military operation. Nevertheless, his motivation for fighting was something that must be taking into consideration. It is commonly stated and believed that on the evening of October 27th, while preparing for battle, Constantine had a vision, which let him fight under the protection of the Christian God. Eusebius stated, â€Å"About the tie of the midday sun, when day was just turning, he said he saw with his own eyes, up in the sky and resting over the sun, a cross-shaped trophy formed from light†¦which said, â€Å"By the conquer.† †¦use this as a protection against the attacks of the enemy.† The vision, however, differs between the sources reporting it. Lactantius stated that Constantine did not have a direct vision in the sky, rather he simply had a dream. Needless to say, whatever story of the vision may or may not be true, this battle had shown his confidence in mens divina (divine mind), because it was there that Constantine became a supporter of Christianity. In 313, Constantine declared that Christians should be able to have the freedom and worship whomever they desire in peace. This was stated in The Edict of Milan, signed by Constantine and Licinius, which proclaimed the religious toleration andShow MoreRelatedConstantine the Ruler of the Roman Empire1626 Words   |  7 Pagesgained much respect and admiration among the Romans as a fair ruler. He emerged as a ruler who supported Christianity and then became popular as a Christian ruler himself. His reign and victory over the Roman Empire is a significant event in the history of Christian religion. With the Edic t of Milan in 313 Christianity was recognized as a religion, and the followers were free to practice Christianity without fear. It has been argued that Constantine failed to treat different religions equally as paganismRead MoreConstantine And Christianity Of The Roman Empire1350 Words   |  6 PagesConstantine and Christianity in the Roman Empire Religion has always been an important force in the lives of common people. In the early centuries, Christianity was developing with a great influence to affect the Roman world. Constantine came to power in the Western provinces of the Roman Empire as an advocate of religious toleration. Constantine’s advocacy for religious toleration alongside his conversion marked a turning point of the Roman world and drove the spread Christianity. With Diocletian’sRead MoreConstantine The Great And Flavius Valerius Constantinus1114 Words   |  5 Pagesbecoming known as Constantius Chlorus, granted 3 years of peaceful rule due to the treachery of the previous ruler of Roman Britain. The key influences for Constantine are firstly his father. 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