What was the appeal of christianity in the early 4th century. What was it's main message and what made people so interested in it?
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/religion/why/appeal.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity
so basically people were promised spiritual gifts and what not?
Yes. I think everlasting life was another appeal. The prospect of life in heaven made it easier to bear the hardships in life.
The appeal of Christianity in the early 4th century can be attributed to several factors that made it attractive and gained the interest of people during that time. One crucial aspect was the main message of Christianity, which resonated with many individuals.
The central message of Christianity involves the belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. Christians taught that through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, salvation and eternal life were available to all who believed in him. This message spoke to the deep spiritual needs and desires for hope, purpose, and meaning that people had in the ancient world.
Furthermore, Christianity offered a sense of community and belonging. The early Christian communities emphasized love, compassion, and caring for one another. This inclusive nature attracted people who were often marginalized or excluded in society, including women, slaves, and the poor. The Christian community offered a source of support, belonging, and empowerment, which was a stark contrast to the hierarchical and often oppressive social structures of the time.
Another factor that contributed to the appeal of Christianity in the 4th century was the example set by Christian communities themselves. Early Christians were known for their acts of charity, their support of the needy and vulnerable, and their commitment to living out their faith in practical, everyday ways. This witness of genuine, selfless love and righteousness had a profound impact on those around them and influenced many to explore Christianity.
Additionally, the conversion of the Roman Emperor Constantine in the early 4th century played a crucial role in the rise of Christianity. Constantine's proclamation of toleration for Christianity through the Edict of Milan in 313 CE removed the persecution and allowed Christianity to flourish openly. This official endorsement of the faith not only gave it credibility but also made it an attractive option for many people seeking favor with the imperial power.
In summary, the appeal of Christianity in the early 4th century can be attributed to its central message of salvation, its emphasis on community and love, its examples of charity and righteousness, and the official endorsement and patronage it received from Emperor Constantine. These factors, combined with the spiritual desires and social circumstances of the time, made Christianity a compelling and popular choice for many people during this period.