1–100
The first century (1–100) saw the apostolic preaching, the martyrdom of Peter and Paul, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the spread of the Gospel across the Roman world. The Apostle Peter and Saint Paul laid the foundations; the Beloved Disciple and the other apostles carried the faith to the nations. Explore miracles and teachings from this era.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Highlights of the Era
Pentecost, the Council of Jerusalem, the missions of Paul, the fall of Jerusalem (70), and the writing of the Gospels and epistles define this era. The Church confessed one Lord, one faith, one baptism.
Section Highlights
Worship and liturgy. The Eucharist and baptism were celebrated from the beginning. By the end of the century the basic shape of Christian worship was established.
Saints and martyrs. Peter, Paul, James, and many others gave their lives for the Gospel. Their witness shaped the Church's understanding of martyrdom.
Mission and expansion. From Jerusalem the faith spread to Antioch, Rome, Alexandria, and beyond. The apostolic preaching reached Jews and Gentiles alike.
Challenges. Persecution under Nero and Domitian, internal divisions, and the need to define orthodoxy against early heresies marked the period.
Legacy. The first century bequeathed the New Testament, the Creed in embryo, and the apostolic succession. Explore the second century and the full timeline.
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