Constantine's conversion and rule bring major changes to the church.

A new era for Christianity begins.

Early in the fourth century, the last and worst persecution of the early church broke out.

Most early documents dealt with the work and thought of the leaders of the church, but that does not give us the full picture.

In the last years of the second century, the church had enjoyed a time of peace. But in the third century, things changed.

Early church leaders Tertullian of Carthage and Origen of Alexandria contribute to the doctrine of the church.

Early Christian writers begin to formulate the doctrines of the church.

As diversity enriches the early church, the integrity of the message is threatened.

Christian apologists arise to defend the faith against pagan critics.

Christians continue to experience persecution as the faith expands westward.