CH101 - The Third Century

The Decian Persecution
In 247-248 Rome celebrated 1,000 years of existence with a three day, nonstop party. The church had grow immensely during this first half of the third century, had begun to reach into every strata of society, and had experienced a relative respite from persecutions for around 30 years.

248 - the troops of Decius proclaim him as emperor
249 - Decius takes control of the government
250 - Decius participates in the annual sacrifice to Jupiter and then orders that his example be followed throughout the empire.

It appears that resentments or prejudice had built up against the Christians - the order of Decius was quickly carried all around the empire, which was somewhat unusual. It was a brutal time for around 18 months. The bishops of Rome, Antioch, and Jerusalem were executed. When the wave of persecution had passed bishops came out from hiding and exile to find thousands of lapsed believers wishing to be readmitted to fellowship.

Second repentance had once again become an issue and the man who addressed it was bishop Cyprian of Carthage.

Learn more about Decius:
Trajan Decius (249-251 A.D.) Online Encyclopedia of Roman Emperors
Decius New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia

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