CHURCH IN THE AGE OF CONSTANTINE: THE THEOLOGICAL CHALLENGES

By J. (JOHANNES) ROLDANUS

Book Description

When Christianity first gained official recognition under Emperor Constantine in the fourth century, believers faced unprecedented opportunities and challenges that would reshape their faith forever. This pivotal moment in Christian history continues to spark intense debate among modern believers, with some viewing it as a dangerous compromise while others see it as a remarkable example of successful cultural integration.

J. Roldanus offers a nuanced theological examination of this transformative period, moving beyond simplistic judgments to explore how early Christians navigated the complex relationship between faith and imperial power. Rather than dismissing this era as a spiritual decline, he employs the concept of "contextualization" to understand how believers thoughtfully engaged with their changing world while maintaining their core commitment to salvation through Christ.

The author reveals how fourth-century Christians wrestled with fundamental questions that remain relevant today: How does authentic faith interact with political authority? Can spiritual truth be preserved while adapting to cultural contexts? What happens when religious communities gain societal influence?

Through careful analysis of doctrinal developments and ethical reasoning from this crucial century, Roldanus demonstrates that despite imperial interference, theological reflection continued to evolve according to its own internal logic. Early Christians showed natural concern for connecting their understanding of salvation with the most significant elements of their surrounding culture.

This scholarly yet accessible study equips readers to form informed perspectives on a period that profoundly shaped Christianity's future trajectory.