Historical Response to Persecution

The church responded to persecution in almost as many ways as the types of persecution they endured. As a whole, the overarching response was a dispersion of believers. The first persecution of the church by the Jews scattered some of the church in Jerusalem. Persecution under Nero further scattered Christians. These and subsequent scatterings resulted in the rapid, grass-fire like, spread of the Gospel.

Unfortunately, in addition to the church’s rapid growth, there were negative responses as well. Many recanted their faith and denied Christianity in order to save their lives or those of their loved ones. Precious copies of Scripture were seized and destroyed. All told, over three million Christians died due to persecution.