Initially persecuted by Roman culture and seen as a threat to the prevalent polytheistic faith, Christianity finally gained favor and came to be recognized as the official religion of the Roman Empire.

Answer 1

This shift occurred in the 4th century AD under the rule of Emperor Constantine the Great. Constantine, who was favorable towards Christianity, issued the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious tolerance to Christians and ended their persecution. This marked a significant turning point for Christianity's status in the Roman Empire.
 
However, it was not until the reign of Emperor Theodosius I in 380 AD that Christianity was declared the official religion of the Roman Empire. Theodosius issued the Edict of Thessalonica, which made Christianity the state religion and prohibited the worship of other gods. This decision solidified Christianity's status and led to the decline of polytheistic religions in the empire.
 
The shift towards Christianity as the official religion had several motivations. Constantine, in particular, saw Christianity as a unifying force that could help stabilize his empire. Additionally, the growing influence and popularity of Christianity among the people played a role in its acceptance by the ruling class.
 
Once Christianity became the official religion, it brought about significant changes in Roman society. Churches were built, and Christian rituals and holidays were established. Many pagan temples and symbols were destroyed or repurposed for Christian use. The clergy gained power and influence, and Christian doctrine increasingly shaped laws and cultural norms.
 
Overall, Christianity's recognition as the official religion of the Roman Empire marked a major turning point in its history, leading to its eventual dominance in Western civilization.