Church History II

Teachers

Art Clark Teacher

Charles White Teacher

Tommy Stringer Teacher

WW

Wendell Welch

Jake Collins Teacher

Zach Russell Teacher

Lesson Summary

The class examined the early church’s experience during the first century Roman emperors, beginning with Caligula. The teacher noted that Acts 9:31 records a period of peace and growth for believers even while Caligula was imposing images in synagogues, though he never directly persecuted Christians. The discussion then moved to Claudius, referencing Acts 12 to illustrate how Herod Agrippa’s actions led to the martyrdom of James, the brother of John, and the arrest of Peter. The lesson continued with a brief overview of Nero’s later persecution and shifted to a genealogical look at the Herodian family, particularly addressing whether Herod the Great was a Hasmonean. The teacher clarified that the Hasmonean dynasty, originating from the Maccabees, was distinct, though Herod married into that line. The class also traced the broader geopolitical landscape, detailing the Seleucid and Ptolemaic divisions after Alexander the Great and how Rome’s Republic eventually placed Herod as king in 37 BC. Throughout, the instructor connected historical events to the scriptural record, emphasizing how the church’s endurance was shaped by both divine guidance and external pressures. The central message underscored that, despite political turmoil and occasional persecution, the early Christians experienced growth, comfort, and the Holy Spirit’s work. By understanding the historical context of the New Testament, students were encouraged to appreciate God’s providence and the resilient faith of the first believers, inspiring them to walk faithfully in today’s world.

Key Scriptures