1. CHURCH HISTORY 100 A. D. – 500 A. D.

2. Journey from 100 – 500 The Church spread rapidly and her doctrine continued to develop. The seeds of the gospel were sown in much of Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. Christianity flourished in these areas.

3. Journey from 100 – 500 Christians continue to pray together and to celebrate the Eucharist motivated by their profound love of Jesus. They were also known for their love of service to others. They reached out to the poor, the homeless, and the unwanted. They welcomed all races and nations to their midst.

4. Journey from 100 – 500 It is important to remember that while the Church is always guided by the Holy Spirit, it is made up of imperfect human beings who can make mistakes and are capable of sinning. Therefore, conflicts and controversies, corruption and even wars are found throughout the history of the Church.

5. Journey from 100 – 500 During this era, many HERESIES arose. Church councils were held especially to correct these false teachings concerning Christian beliefs.

8. "I say to thee, thou art Peter, and on this rock I will build My Church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.“ - Matthew 16:18

9. Struggles and Upheaval Persecutions continued because Christians would not worship false gods or obey unjust laws. Many Christians were martyred or sent into exile during the reign of Emperor Diocletion. The first emperor to become a Christian was Constantine. After his conversion he issued the EDICT OF MILAN in 313 AD This edict ended persecution of the Church in the Roman empire and recognized the right of Christians to worship in accordance with their faith. As a result of the new freedom, Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire

10. EDICT OF MILAN – 313 A.D.