Early History

The early history of Christianity refers to the first three centuries, this time span can be divided into two periods: the apostolic period, when the first apostles were alive and led the church, and the post-apostolic period, when the Christian movement began to become structured. The post-apostolic period was also a period of persecution towards Christians. 

Apostolic Age

The apostolic age, from the years 30 – 100 AD, is a very important time in the history of Christianity, it provided the foundation for the future and also produced writings that formed the New Testament. This is a time during which Jesus’ apostles, along with his relatives, travelled around the Mediterranean and sought converts. Initially during this time Christians were identified with the Jewish religion, this provided protection from the Romans as Jews were exempt from certain legal requirements during the time. But the doctorines of the apostles began to cause conflict between Christians and the Jewish authorities, this led to their expulsion and Christianity achieved a separate identity. Now that Christians were no longer associated with Judaism they were no longer exempt from certain Roman laws and this led to persecution as Christians refused to worship Roman Gods.

Post-Apostolic Age

The post-apostolic age, from the years 100 – 313 AD, is a time period during which Christians were persecuted by the Roman Empire but Christianity continued its spread throughout the Mediterranean and eventually the persecutions ended with the legalization of Christianity under Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. During this time Christianity also began to become structured with the emergence of bishops and a hierarchy. During this time the writings of the apostles began to be shared amongst Christian communities and the Biblical canon was formed. Most of what is known as the New Testament in modern times was formed in this period.

Map showing spread of Christianity during first 6 centuries