Authority and Orthodoxy

Neronian Persecution

systemic persecution of Christians under Emperor Nero 

Celsus

2nd-century Greek philosopher who wrote a polemical work against Christianity

Manichaeism

Popular dualist religion in the Roman Empire associated with a Persian prophet named Mani

Apologetics

reasoned defense of a religion

Justin Martyr

Central figure in the development of apologetics; reasoned Christina faith with Greek philosophy

Great Persecution

initiated by Diocletian, forced Chrisitan to make sacrifices to the Roman Gods through torture and execution

Heresy

beliefs contrary to orthodox doctine

Arianism

belief that the Son is not made of the same substance as the Father

Gnosticism

esoteric sects emphasizing secret knowledge, material world created by a lesser God

Constantine the Great

First Christian Roman Emperor

Battle of Milvian Bridge

Constatine vs. Maxentius; Constantine had a vision which led him to conquer the Roman Empire under God

Edict of Milan

proclamation issues by Constatine establishing religious toleration for Christians in the Roman Empire

Nicene Creed

fundamental statement of Christian Faith and the belief in the Trinity

Homoousions

Jesus is of the same substance as the Father

Monasticism

withdrawal from society to live in solitude

Relic 

object or article of religious significance from the past