January 30, 2008

 

  As we read the NT scriptures and follow its emphasis, a few things

become evident concerning the close of the apostolic age.  Usually,

the apostolic age is considered to run from 35 AD to about 90 AD;

from Acts 1 to the death of John, the apostle, the last to die.

  Marked by:

1) Widespread evangelism- Acts 28:28-31, Romans 16:25-26, II Cor.10:16.

This geographic movement tended to be from east to west—observe Paul’s interest in Spain in Rom.16:24 which would be the western most end of

the Mediterranean basin.  But the movement was characterized by large numbers of converts to Christ.

2) Increase in heresy—see epistles of Galatians, Colossians and I John.

As the truth expanded to other locations, the spirit of syncretism came to

influence the converts.  The gospel was mixed with a variety of false

viewpoints and pagan teaching—the “absolute” nature of the Judeo-Christian

faith was threatened.  Much of apostolic effort was put in to correcting

these errors, especially the beginning of Gnosticism.

3) Increased persecution-  note II Tim.4:6, Rev.1:9 as well as localized

opposition by Jews as seen in Acts.  This fulfilled warnings by Jesus (John 16:1-3, Luke 12:4-7). 

 

 Further, some conditions in the Roman Empire are worth noting as well.

1) A general deterioration of the culture was ongoing.  Rome had lapsed

into a dictatorship with increasingly depraved men in leadership.  Graft,

corruption, and bribery became a frequent way to conduct business.  The

aristocracy indulged in drunkenness and debauchery, while the common

people demanded free food and entertainment—thus, was expanded the

Roman arena with gladiators, etc.

 

2) With this deterioration came the rise of the deification of the Roman

Emperor.  Absurd stories and myths arose out of the propaganda of the

Emperors in order to feed their ego and excite the populace.

 

3)  Violence and immorality was rampant.  The previously highly-valued

Roman “family” was ignored and even despised.  There was a breakdown

of civil obedience and crime was out of control.

 

4) Religiously, the concept of mixing various religious beliefs ruled—thus,

syncretism become a mindset.  The clear truth of the gospel offered a

relief from this, but even the gospel was subjected to mixture.

 

 

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5)  While initial persecution was by Jews, as the apostolic age ended

there was more opposition and persecution by Roman authorities.

Nero (64-68), Domitian (90-95) and Trajan (104-117) led in this effort.

Christians were killed by the thousands in Roman arenas for sport.

 

6) Antioch of Syria became a center of ministry—see Acts 6:5, 11:19-27,

13:1, 14:26, 15:22,35, 18:22 and Gal.2:11.