Midterm Prep

Edict of Milan

Legalized Christianity in 313, allowing Christians to practice their faith openly without fear of persecution.

First Council of Nicaea

Convened by Constantine in 325 to address heresies and unify Christian doctrine.

End of Persecutions

Marked the cessation of state-sponsored persecution of Christians due to Constantine's conversion.

Positive Effects of Constantine's Conversion

Legalization of Christianity, end of persecutions, support for the Church, and convening the First Council of Nicaea.

Negative Effects of Constantine's Conversion

Political intrusions into religious matters, commodification of faith, division among Christians, and dependence on the state.

Arianism

A heresy addressed at the First Council of Nicaea, denying the full divinity of Christ.

Nicene Creed

The statement of faith established at the First Council of Nicaea, succeeding the Apostle's Creed.

Commodification of Faith

The process by which Christian teachings may become secondary to political agendas due to the church's alliance with the state.

Political Intrusions

Risk of compromising spiritual integrity as bishops and priests became entangled with state politics.

Heresies

Doctrinal disputes that persisted within Christianity despite Constantine's conversion, shaping theological development.