AN EARLY CHURCH HISTORY PODCAST

The First 500 Years Episode 43

How Did Rome Become Christian So Quickly?

This episode explores the fascinating historiography of the rise of Christianity, focusing on Gibbon and Stark's influential works. It examines secondary causes, growth models, and early material culture, providing a comprehensive understanding of early Christian expansion. This episode explores the sociological and historical factors behind the rise of Christianity, emphasizing the role of elites, open networks, and social cohesion in its growth. It also examines early Christian practices, the importance of apostolic succession, and the impact of Roman infrastructure on spreading the faith.

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The First 500 Years Episode 42

Did the Early Church Fathers believe in a Literal Millennium? Chiliasm Examined

Did the earliest Christians believe that Christ would establish a temporary, earthly kingdom on earth for a millennium prior to the general judgement? Did the 4th century Church suddenly abandon that belief due to the influence of Christian Platonism? In this episode, we explore chiliasm—the belief in a literal thousand-year reign of Christ on earth—as it appears in the writings of the Church Fathers of the second century.

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The First 500 Years Episode 41

Montanist Movement Explained

Discover the rise and fall of the Montanist movement, an early Christian sect led by Montanus in the 2nd century AD. Branded a heresy by the early church, Montanism emphasized ecstatic prophecy, strict morality, and the imminent return of Christ. In this video, we explore the origins of Montanism, its teachings, key figures like Priscilla and Maximilla, and the reasons the mainstream church ultimately rejected it. Whether you’re a theology student, church history enthusiast, or curious about Christian heresies, this deep dive into Montanism will give you insight into one of the most controversial movements in early Christianity.

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