Shameless Popery
#126 How Christianity Conquered Rome (and How We Can Do it Again) - Joe Heschmeyer
Nov 28, 2024
Dive into the fascinating rise of Christianity as it transformed from a minority faith into a dominant force in the Roman Empire. Discover how personal relationships and social networks fueled conversions, far surpassing mere doctrinal discussions. Explore the demographic impacts of pro-natalism versus pagan practices, shaping future populations. Delve into the unique missionary zeal that drove expansion and contributed to the decline of paganism. Finally, challenge the narrative of religion's decline with compelling evidence of Christianity's enduring legacy.
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Quick takeaways
- Christianity's remarkable growth from 1,000 to 40 million followers in the Roman Empire showcases the power of personal connections in faith conversions.
- The podcast challenges the oversimplified narrative of Constantine's influence, highlighting that Christianity's expansion was significantly underway prior to his conversion.
Deep dives
The Phenomenon of Christianity's Growth
Christianity's rise from a mere band of followers to a dominant force in the Roman Empire is a remarkable phenomenon that merits examination. By 40 AD, estimates suggest there were around 1,000 Christians, but by 400 AD, this number had swelled to approximately 40 million. This growth challenges the understanding of how such a persecuted group could achieve dominance in a vast empire known for crushing opposition. The podcast draws a parallel, imagining a scenario where a modern minority faith could similarly flourish over centuries, demonstrating the significant and rapid transformation that Christianity underwent during this period.
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