Page 33 - History of Christianity I - Student Textbook

The Life of Patrick

Edict of Theodosius 391 – Emperor Theodosius of Rome forever changed the course of Christian history not in
one way, but in two. He used his power to officially enforce orthodox Christianity, but ended up placing his
power under that of the church, setting a standard for more than a millennium.

He also put an end to the Arian heresy which had divided the empire for over a half century. One hundred and
fifty bishops gathered and revised the Nicene Creed of A.D. 325 into the creed we know today. Arianism has
never made a serious challenge since.

When the city of Thessalonica rioted because a favored charioteer was imprisoned (for homosexuality),
Theodosius ordered revenge: a chariot race was announced, citizens gathered in the arena, the gates were
locked, and soldiers were set upon the crowd. By the end of the day, 7,000 had perished.

Ambrose, the bishop of Milan who was a spiritual and political adviser to Theodosius, was furious. He refused to
give Theodosius Communion until the emperor performed public penance: he must put aside his royal garments,
don a shroud, and publicly plead for God's mercy.

When Theodosius consented, it marked a new chapter in the history of church and state. For the first time, a
secular ruler submitted to the church. Less than a century earlier, emperors were trying to wipe out the church.
By 391, pagan temples were closed and pagan worship was forbidden.
(https://www.christianitytoday.com/history/people/rulers/theodosius-i.html)

We see the power of the church increasing even in the political realm. The more power the church absorbed,
the farther they walked away from the founding doctrines of the apostles.

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