Lecture 14 - Accounting for the Rise of Christianity

(Verse 1) In the first four centuries, a story unfolds, Of Christianity's rise, in tales untold. From a minor sect to Rome's official creed, It spread like wildfire, fulfilling its need. (Chorus) How did it grow, what secrets lie, In the heart of its expansion, under the sky? Let's dive deep, unravel the rhyme, Of Christianity's journey, through space and time. (Verse 2) Eusebius, Scholasticus, they told the tale, Of divine providence, like a mighty sail. But modern minds seek a different light, To understand the growth, clear and bright. (Chorus) How did it grow, what secrets lie, In the heart of its expansion, under the sky? Let's dive deep, unravel the rhyme, Of Christianity's journey, through space and time. (Bridge) Before Constantine, a world in flux, The Apostles' age, without a crux. The Hellenistic, Jewish, Roman blend, Provided a stage, for faith to ascend. (Chorus) How did it grow, what secrets lie, In the heart of its expansion, under the sky? Let's dive deep, unravel the rhyme, Of Christianity's journey, through space and time. (Verse 3) Persecution loomed, a shadow cast, Yet martyrdom's seed, grew fast. Pliny's letter, Justin's plea, Testimony to faith, resolute and free. (Chorus) How did it grow, what secrets lie, In the heart of its expansion, under the sky? Let's dive deep, unravel the rhyme, Of Christianity's journey, through space and time. (Bridge) Then came Constantine, a pivotal turn, Legalization's flame, began to burn. Though debate surrounds, his true intent, Christianity flourished, on a new ascent. (Chorus) How did it grow, what secrets lie, In the heart of its expansion, under the sky? Let's dive deep, unravel the rhyme, Of Christianity's journey, through space and time. (Outro) From persecution's grip, to imperial embrace, Christianity soared, with unyielding grace. In the end, it's a tale of God's design, As Christianity rose, in a plan divine.