Life of Jesus of Nazareth
Jesus of Nazareth, the central figure of Christianity, was born around 4 BCE and was crucified around 30 CE. His teachings and resurrection are the foundation of Christian faith.
c. 4 BCE - 30 CE
c. 33 CE
Pentecost
Pentecost is considered the "birthday" of the Christian Church. According to the Acts of the Apostles, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, enabling them to speak in various languages and spread Jesus' teachings.
c. 34 CE
Conversion of Paul the Apostle
Saul of Tarsus, later known as Paul, converted to Christianity after experiencing a vision of Jesus on the road to Damascus. Paul became a pivotal figure in the spread of early Christianity.
c. 49 CE
Council of Jerusalem
The Council of Jerusalem was a meeting of Christian leaders to discuss the inclusion of Gentile converts. It was decided that Gentiles did not need to follow all Jewish customs to join the Christian community.
c. 64 CE
Great Fire of Rome and Persecution
Emperor Nero blamed Christians for the Great Fire of Rome, leading to severe persecution. This event highlighted the growing tension between Christians and Roman authorities.
c. 70 CE
Destruction of the Second Temple
The Roman siege of Jerusalem resulted in the destruction of the Second Temple. This event significantly impacted Jewish and early Christian communities, leading to the further separation of Christianity from Judaism.
c. 85-90 CE
Composition of the Gospel of John
The Gospel of John was written around this time, emphasizing the divinity of Jesus and providing a unique perspective compared to the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke).
c. 100 CE
Death of the Apostle John
John, the last of the original apostles, is believed to have died around this time. His death marked the end of the apostolic age.
c. 112 CE
Correspondence between Pliny and Trajan
Pliny the Younger, a Roman governor, wrote to Emperor Trajan seeking advice on how to deal with Christians. Trajan's response set a precedent for the treatment of Christians in the Roman Empire.
c. 150 CE
Writings of Justin Martyr
Justin Martyr, an early Christian apologist, wrote several works defending Christianity and addressing its teachings. His writings provide valuable insights into early Christian thought.
c. 180 CE
Irenaeus' "Against Heresies"
Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons, wrote "Against Heresies" to combat Gnostic beliefs and to define orthodox Christian doctrine. His work was crucial in shaping early Christian theology.
c. 250 CE
Decian Persecution
Emperor Decius initiated a widespread persecution of Christians, demanding they perform sacrifices to Roman gods. Many Christians were martyred or went into hiding during this period.
c. 303-311 CE
Diocletianic Persecution
The Diocletianic Persecution was the last and most severe persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire. It aimed to eradicate Christianity but ultimately failed, leading to greater solidarity among Christians.
313 CE
Edict of Milan
Emperors Constantine and Licinius issued the Edict of Milan, granting religious tolerance to Christians and allowing them to practice their faith openly without persecution.
325 CE
First Council of Nicaea
The First Council of Nicaea was convened by Emperor Constantine to address the Arian controversy and to establish a unified Christian doctrine. The Nicene Creed, a statement of faith, was formulated during this council.
