DOMITIAN'S PERSECUTION by Caleb Gulczynski


             Throughout history, Christians have suffered great persecution, even to the extent of death. This was the case during the sinister reign of the Roman emperor Domitian. Even during this time, however, Christians were still encouraged to spread the gospel and stay committed to their faith. One can see the undying dedication and sincere commitment of each Christian through their unwavering willingness to suffer terrible persecution and even death during this time.Domitian became an emperor of Rome around A.D. 81.  

        Immediately after Domitian became emperor, he began to severely persecute Christians, which became known as the Second Persecution. Domitian was an outwardly cruel man. He even killed his own brother and showed no remorse to the Christians. He ruthlessly ordered them to be killed unless they renounced their religion. Those who were true Christians would not renounce their faith, and thousands of heroic Christians died under the stern rule of Domitian.


            There are many recorded examples that we have today of Christians who paid the ultimate sacrifice. One of these examples is Simeon. Simeon was a bishop of Jerusalem and a devout Christian. When he was found out to be a Christian, he was sentenced to death. Even though Simeon knew he was about to die, he firmly remained faithful to the end. Another example is the Apostle John. John boldly preached Jesus’ name even though he knew it was forbidden. He was eventually arrested and tried. He was found guilty and was painfully boiled in oil. After this, he was banished to Patmos where he toiled during the final years of his life.

            We Christians today can be overcome by our overpowering flesh or the fear of man when it comes to giving out the gospel. However, one can see through the testimony of these martyrs that they were not afraid of giving out the gospel even in time of persecution. They followed God’s perfect will for their lives even if that meant death, but in the end, it was worth it to hear, “Well done thou good and faithful servant.” Christians today need to strive for the same goal and boldly proclaim the name of Jesus Christ to the lost, dying souls around them.


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