For several hundred years, Roman emperors operated under a sort of “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy in which they mostly ignored the presence of Christians. Though most emperors viewed themselves as gods, they were not keen on Christians worshipping someone else, but most allowed the Christians to live out their faith. However, on February 24, 303 AD, Emperor Diocletian issued the Edict Against the Christians, inflicting serious pain on Christians and the churches throughout the Roman Empire. This edict would remain in effect until Constantine became emperor some years later and ended the persecution of Christians. Included is an image of Diocletian’s palace.
