A History of Western Philosophy: And Its Connection with Political and Social Circumstances from the Earliest Times to the Present Day

by Bertrand Russell

The growth of Christianity before Constantine, as well as the motives of his conversion, have been variously explained by various authors. Gibbon IX assigns five causes: “1. The inflexible, and, if we may use the expression, the intolerant zeal of the Christians, derived, it is true, from the Jewish religion, but purified from the narrow and unsocial spirit which, instead of inviting, had deterred the Gentiles from embracing the law of Moses. “2. The doctrine of a future life, improved by every additional circumstance which could give weight and efficacy to that important truth. “3. The miraculous powers ascribed to the primitive Church. “4. The pure and austere morals of the Christians. “5. The union and discipline of the Christian republic, which gradually formed an independent and increasing state in the heart of the Roman empire.”