top of page
Search

Constantine the Great—A Champion of Christianity?

Early Life and Rise to Power


Constantine, born around 275 C.E. in Naissus, Serbia, was the son of Constantius Chlorus, a prominent Roman military officer who later became emperor of the western provinces. Constantine's early life was marked by military training and political maneuvering. Upon his father's death in 306 C.E., Constantine was declared emperor by his troops, initiating a period of civil war to secure his position.



The Battle of the Milvian Bridge

One of the pivotal moments in Constantine's rise to power was the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 C.E., where he faced his rival Maxentius. According to Christian tradition, Constantine experienced a vision of a flaming cross in the sky accompanied by the words "In hoc signo vinces" ("In this sign conquer"). He subsequently adopted the Christian symbol, placing the Chi-Rho (the first two letters of Christ's name in Greek) on his soldiers' shields. However, historical accounts of this vision vary, and some historians question the exact details and timing of this event.


The Edict of Milan

In 313 C.E., Constantine and his co-emperor Licinius issued the Edict of Milan, granting religious tolerance throughout the Roman Empire. This decree allowed Christians to worship freely and marked a significant shift in imperial policy. While some historians view the Edict of Milan as a monumental step for religious freedom, others argue that it was a pragmatic political move rather than a genuine embrace of Christianity.



Constantine's Sole Rule and the Council of Nicaea


By 324 C.E., Constantine had defeated all his rivals, becoming the sole ruler of the Roman Empire. In 325 C.E., he convened the Council of Nicaea, the first ecumenical council of the Christian church. Although Constantine was not baptized at the time, he played a crucial role in the council's proceedings, which aimed to address the Arian controversy and establish a unified Christian doctrine. The council produced the Nicene Creed, affirming the divinity of Jesus Christ and condemning Arianism.



Constantine's Baptism and Death


Constantine's relationship with Christianity was complex and multifaceted. He delayed his baptism until shortly before his death in 337 C.E. This late baptism raises questions about his genuine commitment to the faith. Some sources suggest that Constantine continued to practice pagan rituals and held the title of Pontifex Maximus, the chief priest of the Roman state religion, until his death.


Constantine's Religious Policies


Constantine's policies towards Christianity were influenced by political considerations. He sought to use Christianity as a unifying force within the empire, granting privileges to the Christian clergy and integrating Christian symbols into state ceremonies. The merging of political and religious authority under Constantine set a precedent for the relationship between church and state in subsequent centuries.



The Legacy of Constantine


Constantine's legacy is a subject of debate among historians and theologians. On one hand, he is credited with ending the persecution of Christians and promoting the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. On the other hand, his motives and actions have been scrutinized, with some critics arguing that his embrace of Christianity was driven more by political expediency than genuine faith.


Theological Controversies and Constantine's Role


The theological controversies of Constantine's time, particularly the Arian dispute, were significant in shaping the early church. Arianism, which denied the full divinity of Jesus Christ, posed a major challenge to orthodox Christian beliefs. Constantine's involvement in the Council of Nicaea and his support for the Nicene Creed were pivotal in establishing the orthodox position on the nature of Christ.


Constantine's Influence on Christian Doctrine


Constantine's influence on Christian doctrine extended beyond the Council of Nicaea. His patronage of the church and support for theological debates helped to shape the development of Christian orthodoxy. However, his role in these matters has been viewed with skepticism by some scholars, who argue that his primary concern was maintaining political unity rather than theological purity.


The Impact of Constantine's Conversion


The impact of Constantine's conversion to Christianity was profound and far-reaching. It marked the beginning of a new era for the church, which transitioned from a persecuted minority to a privileged and influential institution within the Roman Empire. This shift had significant implications for the development of Christian theology, ecclesiastical structures, and the relationship between church and state.



Constantine and the Christian Clergy


Constantine's relationship with the Christian clergy was marked by both cooperation and tension. He granted the clergy various privileges, including tax exemptions and legal immunities, and involved them in imperial governance. However, he also exerted considerable control over church affairs, intervening in theological disputes and using his authority to enforce doctrinal unity.



The Donatist Controversy


One of the significant religious controversies during Constantine's reign was the Donatist controversy in North Africa. The Donatists, a sect that emphasized the purity of the church and the moral integrity of its clergy, opposed the mainstream church's willingness to readmit lapsed Christians who had renounced their faith during persecution. Constantine's efforts to suppress the Donatists highlighted his commitment to religious unity and his willingness to use state power to achieve it.


Constantine's Personal Piety


The question of Constantine's personal piety is complex. While he professed a commitment to Christianity, his actions and policies suggest a pragmatic approach to religion. He continued to honor traditional Roman deities and maintained his role as Pontifex Maximus. His delayed baptism and the persistence of pagan practices in his court have led some historians to question the depth of his Christian faith.


Dynastic Murders

Constantine's Family and Succession


Constantine's family dynamics were marked by intrigue and violence. He executed his eldest son Crispus and his wife Fausta under mysterious circumstances, raising questions about his moral character. These actions, coupled with his political maneuvers, have contributed to a mixed legacy that balances his contributions to Christianity with his personal flaws and political ambitions.


Dynastic Murders

Under the heading "Dynastic Murders," the bookIstoria tou Ellinikou Ethnous(History of the Greek Nation) describes the "disgusting domestic crimes that Constantine committed." After founding his dynasty, Constantine quickly forgot how to enjoy his unexpected success and became aware of the dangers around him. Being a suspicious person and possibly influenced by flatterers, he first became wary of his nephew Licinianus—the son of a co-Augustus he had already executed—as a potential rival. This suspicion led to Licinianus's murder.



Following this, Constantine's own firstborn son, Crispus, was executed. This was orchestrated by his stepmother Fausta, who saw Crispus as a threat to her own children's rise to power. Fausta's actions eventually led to her own dramatic death. It seems Augusta Helena, who had influence over her son Constantine until the end, was involved in Fausta's murder. Constantine's irrational emotions also led to the execution of many of his friends and associates. The bookHistory of the Middle Agesconcludes: “The execution—not to say murder—of his own son and his wife indicates that he was untouched by any spiritual influence in Christianity.”



Constantine's Role in Church-State Relations


Constantine's reign set a precedent for the relationship between church and state that would endure for centuries. His integration of Christian symbols and rituals into state ceremonies and his involvement in ecclesiastical affairs established a model of imperial patronage and control over the church. This model influenced subsequent emperors and shaped the development of Christendom.


Constantine's Architectural Legacy


Constantine's architectural projects, including the construction of churches and the founding of Constantinople, left a lasting impact on the Christian world. The city of Constantinople, which he established as a new imperial capital, became a center of Christian culture and a symbol of the fusion of imperial and ecclesiastical power.



The Council of Nicaea and the Nicene Creed


The Council of Nicaea was a watershed moment in Christian history. Convened by Constantine, the council addressed the Arian controversy and produced the Nicene Creed, which articulated the orthodox Christian belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ. Constantine's role in the council underscored his influence on doctrinal matters and his commitment to religious unity.


Constantine's Legacy in Christian Art and Literature


Constantine's legacy is reflected in Christian art and literature, which often depict him as a champion of the faith. His conversion and patronage of the church inspired numerous works that celebrate his contributions to Christianity. However, these portrayals sometimes gloss over the more controversial aspects of his reign and the complexities of his relationship with the church.


Constantine and the Spread of Christianity


Constantine's support for Christianity facilitated its spread throughout the Roman Empire. His policies encouraged the construction of churches, the dissemination of Christian texts, and the promotion of Christian education. The integration of Christianity into the fabric of Roman society helped to establish the religion's dominance in the Western world.



Constantine's Influence on Subsequent Emperors


Constantine's reign set a model for subsequent Roman emperors, who continued to support and patronize the Christian church. His integration of religious and political authority influenced the development of the Byzantine Empire and the relationship between church and state in medieval Europe. Constantine's legacy as a Christian emperor shaped the trajectory of Western civilization.


The Reappraisal of Constantine's Legacy


The reappraisal of Constantine's legacy involves balancing his contributions to Christianity with his political ambitions and personal flaws. While he played a crucial role in ending the persecution of Christians and promoting the faith, his motives and actions were often driven by pragmatism and a desire for imperial unity. This nuanced view recognizes Constantine as a complex figure whose impact on Christian history is both significant and controversial.


Constantine and the Formation of Christian Orthodoxy


Constantine's involvement in the formation of Christian orthodoxy was instrumental in defining the core beliefs of the faith. His support for the Nicene Creed and his efforts to suppress heretical movements helped to establish a unified doctrinal framework for the church. However, his political motives and the coercive methods used to enforce orthodoxy have raised questions about the purity of this process.


Constantine's Role in the Christianization of the Roman Empire


The Christianization of the Roman Empire during Constantine's reign was a transformative process that reshaped the religious landscape of the ancient world. Constantine's policies and patronage facilitated the spread of Christianity and its integration into Roman society. This process involved both genuine conversions and pragmatic adaptations of traditional Roman practices to fit the new Christian paradigm.


The Impact of Constantine's Conversion on Paganism


Constantine's conversion to Christianity had a profound impact on paganism, which gradually declined as the dominant religious force in the Roman Empire. While Constantine initially showed tolerance towards pagan practices, his support for Christianity and the elevation of Christian symbols and rituals contributed to the marginalization of traditional Roman religions. This shift paved the way for the eventual dominance of Christianity in the Western world.


Constantine's Influence on Christian Worship and Liturgy


Constantine's influence on Christian worship and liturgy was significant, as he promoted the construction of churches and the development of Christian rituals and ceremonies. His support for the building of grand basilicas, such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, reflected his commitment to creating a visible and enduring Christian presence in the Roman Empire. These architectural and liturgical developments helped to shape the worship practices of the early church and laid the foundation for future Christian traditions.


Constantine's Role in the Development of Christian Art and Iconography


The development of Christian art and iconography during Constantine's reign was influenced by his patronage and support for the church. The depiction of Christian symbols, such as the Chi-Rho, and the incorporation of Christian themes into Roman art and architecture reflected the growing prominence of Christianity in the empire. These artistic developments helped to communicate and reinforce Christian beliefs and values to a broader audience.


Constantine's Influence on Christian Education and Scholarship


Constantine's support for Christian education and scholarship contributed to the intellectual development of the early church. By promoting the study of Christian texts and the establishment of educational institutions, Constantine helped to foster a culture of learning and theological inquiry within the church. This emphasis on education and scholarship played a crucial role in the formation of Christian doctrine and the development of a learned clergy.


Constantine and the Christianization of Roman Law


The Christianization of Roman law during Constantine's reign involved the incorporation of Christian principles and values into the legal framework of the empire. Constantine's laws reflected a growing concern for social justice and the protection of vulnerable populations, such as widows, orphans, and slaves. These legal reforms demonstrated the influence of Christian ethics on Roman governance and contributed to the moral transformation of the empire.


The Long-Term Impact of Constantine's Reign on Christianity


The long-term impact of Constantine's reign on Christianity is evident in the enduring legacy of his policies and decisions. His support for the church and the establishment of Christian orthodoxy laid the foundation for the future development of Christian theology, worship, and governance. The integration of church and state during his reign set a precedent that would shape the relationship between religion and politics in the Western world for centuries to come.


Constantine's Legacy in the Eastern Orthodox Church


In the Eastern Orthodox Church, Constantine is revered as a saint and "equal to the apostles," reflecting the high regard in which he is held for his contributions to Christianity. His role in the establishment of the Nicene Creed and his support for the church are celebrated as pivotal moments in the history of Eastern Orthodoxy. This veneration highlights the significant and lasting influence of Constantine on the development of the Christian faith in the Eastern Roman Empire.


Constantine's Influence on Western Christianity


Constantine's influence on Western Christianity is also profound, as his policies and decisions helped to shape the theological and institutional framework of the church in the Latin West. The integration of Christian and Roman elements during his reign provided a foundation for the development of medieval Christendom and the eventual rise of the papacy as a central authority in the Western church.


Constantine's Role in Shaping Christian Identity


Constantine's reign played a crucial role in shaping Christian identity, both within the Roman Empire and beyond. His support for the church and the promotion of Christian symbols and rituals helped to establish a distinct Christian culture that differentiated the followers of Christ from their pagan contemporaries. This process of identity formation was essential for the consolidation and growth of the Christian community in the ancient world.



Constantine's Impact on the Spread of Christianity Beyond the Roman Empire


The spread of Christianity beyond the Roman Empire during and after Constantine's reign was facilitated by the stability and support he provided for the church. Missionary efforts and the establishment of Christian communities in regions outside the empire were influenced by the example set by Constantine's policies. The growth of Christianity in regions such as Armenia, Ethiopia, and later, the Germanic kingdoms, can be traced back to the foundation laid during Constantine's reign.


Constantine and the Development of Christian Monasticism


The development of Christian monasticism during Constantine's reign was influenced by the growing prominence of Christianity and the support provided by the emperor. Monastic communities, which sought to live out the Christian ideals of prayer, asceticism, and communal living, flourished in this environment. The establishment of monasticism as a key aspect of Christian life and spirituality can be traced back to this period of growth and consolidation.


Constantine's Impact on the Formation of the Christian Canon


The formation of the Christian canon during Constantine's reign was influenced by his support for the church and the promotion of Christian texts. The process of canonization, which involved the selection and recognition of authoritative Christian writings, was shaped by the theological and ecclesiastical debates of the time. Constantine's support for the church and involvement in doctrinal matters played a role in the establishment of the Christian canon, which continues to be a foundational aspect of Christian faith and practice.



Constantine’s “Sign of the Cross”


Today, many people worship the cross of Christ, and this practice is partly based on a story about Constantine the Great. The story goes that Constantine had a vision, then a dream, and then a victory, which led to his "conversion" to Christianity, all because of the miraculous power of Christ’s cross.


In the year 312, Constantine, who was then the emperor of what we now call France and Britain, set out with his army to fight Maxentius, the emperor of Italy and his brother-in-law. One day, around noon, Constantine saw a pillar of light in the shape of a cross in the sky with the words "Hoc Vince," meaning "By this, Conquer."That night, according to the story, Jesus appeared to Constantine in a dream and told him to make a banner with the cross and carry it at the head of his army as a sign of victory. Constantine did this and also painted the monogram of the cross on his soldiers' shields before the decisive battle at the Milvian Bridge near Rome, where Maxentius was killed.


However, when we look closer at the historical facts, many things about this story seem unbelievable. The story is based on the writings of Eusebius, Lactantius, and a few others who contradict each other. For example, Eusebius said that Constantine saw the cross and had the dream before deciding to go to war with Maxentius, while still in Gaul (modern-day France). But Lactantius said that Constantine had the vision and dream after crossing the Alps, just before the battle near Rome. So, who do we believe?


Was the Vision from God?


More important questions arise when considering who Constantine was. Before the vision, he was a soldier known for killing people and had even murdered his own father-in-law, Maximian Herculius. Religiously, Constantine was a sun-worshiper who prayed to Apollo, the sun god.


Are we to believe that God gave this man special blessings? Did Constantine change his ways and become a true Christian? Did he follow the example of the centurion Cornelius in the Bible, who was baptized and changed his life? The answer is no. History shows that Constantine continued his violent ways and even expanded his conquests. He murdered many people, including his father-in-law, his sister’s husband Bassianus, his 12-year-old nephew Licinianus, his wife Fausta, a friend named Sopater, another brother-in-law Licinius, and his own son Crispus.


Many people wrongly call Constantine a "Christian." But according to the Bible, no murderer will enter God's kingdom (Galatians 5:21; 1 Peter 4:15; 1 John 3:15; Revelation 21:8; 22:15). So, the claim that Constantine was converted to Christianity is false. He was more like a servant of the Devil (John 8:44).


Only a Fake Christian


Some people try to defend Constantine by saying his crimes were just human weaknesses. They criticize other emperors like Maxentius and Maximian while praising Constantine as a savior. They point to his edicts favoring Christians as proof of his conversion. But these edicts prove nothing. Constantine had already issued similar laws before his vision, and they did not favor Christianity over other religions. His goal was to strengthen his power over the divided Roman Empire.


Even after becoming emperor, Constantine continued pagan practices. He issued laws that protected soothsayers and consulted them about omens, dedicated a day for sun worship (Sunday), and celebrated with pagan rituals. Eighteen years after his supposed conversion, he dedicated Constantinople with pagan ceremonies, placing the cross of Christ over the sun god’s chariot.


Vision from the Devil


The idea that God told Constantine to make a military banner with a cross is against everything the Bible teaches. God does not support worldly conflicts. Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world" (John 18:36).


Did the person in Constantine’s dream tell him to give up his pagan ways and murderous lifestyle? No. Historian J. L. von Mosheim warns against believing such stories, saying they could be tricks of the devil. If God had shown Constantine a sign, it would not have been a pagan cross but a simple stake, as Jesus was crucified on an upright stake without crossbars.


Historian Edward Gibbon also questioned the story's authenticity, saying that people's imaginations can turn ordinary events into divine visions. The devil often uses such deceit to lead people astray, just as he did with Hitler, who also saw a vision of a cross (the swastika).

Constantine’s claim of a Christian vision came years later when he united pagan practices with Christianity to form the Roman Catholic Church. This mixed religion was more about political power than true faith. Thus, the story of Constantine’s vision is just a pagan tale dressed up as Christianity.


Constantine’s Conversion​—To What?


The supposed conversion of Roman emperor Constantine has long fascinated students of religion. According to his own account, on the eve of a battle in 312 C.E., Constantine, who was still a pagan, saw a vision of a cross with the words: “In this [sign] conquer.” He claimed to have been "converted" shortly after (in 313 C.E.) and ended the persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire.


Constantine promoted Christianity as a state religion and even got involved in church disputes. However, his actions raised doubts about the sincerity of his conversion, and he wasn't baptized until just before his death, 24 years later.


In an article in Bible Review, numismatist and theology doctoral student Stanley A. Hudson shared how coins from Constantine’s reign provide interesting insights. Before Constantine, Roman coins often depicted popular Roman gods. But after his conversion, pagan themes appeared less frequently—except for coins showing Sol, the sun god, who was Constantine’s favorite. Why?


Hudson suggested two possibilities. First, Constantine’s conversion might have been very gradual, despite his dramatic vision. Or, Constantine might have confused Sol with Jesus. Mixing different beliefs, or syncretism, is not unusual even today. For example, in Latin America, the pre-Columbian goddesses Pacha-Mama and Tonantzin are still worshiped under the name of the Virgin Mary. Similarly, Constantine might have worshiped Sol under the name of Jesus.


This syncretism could explain why December 25th, the birthday of the unconquered sun, was chosen to celebrate Jesus' birth. It also helps us understand why a coin minted to commemorate Constantine’s death had the inscription “DV Constantinus” (“Divine Constantine”). This shows that, despite his conversion and eventual baptism, Constantine was viewed as a god after his death, just like the pagan emperors before him.


About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).


RECOMMENDED READING



20 views0 comments

Comments

bottom of page