ASF 4: SAINT AUGUSTINE ON CHURCH AND SOCIETY
LESSON 2: THE BEGINNING OF CHRISTIANITY
(FROM ASCENSION TO THE MISSIONS ACCOMPLISHED BY THE APOSTLES)
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
1. describe the history of Christianity from the Ascension of Jesus up to the missions
accomplished by the Apostles.
2. value the contributions of the Apostles in the foundation of the Church.
3. trace the spread of Christianity during the time of the Apostles.
VALUES INTEGRATED: VERITAS: Inquisitiveness, pursuit of wisdom, freedom
LISTENING
a) Brainstorming: What do you know about the beginning of Christianity?
b) Watch this video: Historical background of Christianity. History of
Christianity and Judaism.
OPENING
Christianity begins with Jesus Christ. The effects of his life, the response to his teachings, the
experience of his death, and the belief in his resurrection were the origins of the Christian
community. When the Apostle Peter is represented in the New Testament as confessing that
Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God,” he speaks for the Christianity of all ages. And it is
in response to this confession that Jesus is described as announcing the foundation of the
Christian church: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of
death shall not prevail against it.”(Mt. 16:13-18)
After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples over a period of forty days. He instructed
them to wait in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit and commanded them to spread the
Gospel.
The history of Christianity from the Ascension of Jesus to the missions accomplished by the
Apostles is marked by rapid growth, theological development, and struggles against persecution
and cultural opposition.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church, 662, speaks about the ascension of Jesus:
"And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself." The lifting up of Jesus
on the cross signifies and announces his lifting up by his Ascension into heaven, and indeed
begins it. Jesus Christ, the one priest of the new and eternal Covenant, "entered, not into a
sanctuary made by human hands... but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God
on our behalf." There Christ permanently exercises his priesthood, for he "always lives to make
intercession" for "those who draw near to God through him". As "high priest of the good things
to come" he is the center and the principal actor of the liturgy that honors the Father in
heaven.
I. The Ascension of Jesus (circa 30 AD): The Great Commission
Matthew 28: 16-20
16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them
to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then
Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to
me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to
obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the
very end of the age.”
What is the significance of Matthew 28:19-20?
Matthew 28:19-20, often referred to as the Great Commission, is one of the most
significant passages in the New Testament. It serves as a foundational text for the mission of
the Church and the spread of the Christian faith. These verses capture the essence of Jesus'
instructions to His disciples following His resurrection and prior to His ascension into heaven.
Theological Implications
The Great Commission is rich in theological meaning. First, it underscores the authority
of Christ. The preceding verse, Matthew 28:18, declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth
has been given to me." This authority is the basis for the command that follows. Jesus, having
conquered sin and death, possesses the ultimate authority to commission His followers. This
assurance of authority empowers the disciples to carry out the mission with confidence,
knowing they are backed by the sovereign power of Christ.
The command to "make disciples" is central to the passage. Discipleship involves more
than mere conversion; it is a lifelong process of learning and growing in the teachings of Jesus.
It signifies a deep, transformative relationship with Christ, characterized by obedience and
commitment. The call to make disciples of "all nations" highlights the universal nature of the
Gospel. It breaks down ethnic, cultural, and social barriers, emphasizing that the message of
Jesus is for everyone.
Baptism, mentioned specifically in the Great Commission, symbolizes initiation into the
Christian community. It is an outward expression of an inward faith, a public declaration of
allegiance to Christ. The Trinitarian formula, "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of
the Holy Spirit," reflects the fullness of God's nature and the unity of the Godhead. This
formula has been foundational in Christian theology, emphasizing the distinct yet unified work
of the Trinity in salvation.
Teaching is another critical component of the Great Commission. Jesus instructs His
disciples to teach new believers to observe all that He has commanded. This implies a
comprehensive approach to discipleship that encompasses doctrine, ethics, and lifestyle. The
teachings of Jesus, as recorded in the Gospels, provide a blueprint for Christian living. The
emphasis on teaching underscores the importance of Scripture and the role of the Church in
nurturing and guiding believers.
The Promise of Presence
A remarkable aspect of the Great Commission is the promise of Jesus' presence: "And
behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." This assurance is a source of comfort and
strength for believers. It echoes the promise given to Joshua in the Old Testament (Joshua 1:9)
and affirms that Jesus is Emmanuel, "God with us" (Matthew 1:23). The presence of Christ
through the Holy Spirit empowers and sustains the Church in its mission. It assures believers
that they are never alone as they fulfill the call to make disciples.
Impact on the Church and Missions
The Great Commission has profoundly influenced the Church's understanding of its
mission. It has been a driving force behind Christian evangelism and missions throughout
history. The early Church, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, took this commission
seriously, spreading the Gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. The apostle Paul,
among others, exemplified the missionary zeal that has characterized the Church's outreach
efforts.
II. THE BOOK OF THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES sets the stage for the establishment and early
growth of the Christian Church.
1. Summary of the Book of Acts
Author: The book of Acts, also called Acts of the Apostles, does not specifically identify its
author. From Luke 1:1–4 and Acts 1:1–3, we know that the same author wrote both Luke and
Acts. The tradition from the earliest days of the church has been that Luke, a companion of the
apostle Paul, wrote the books of Luke and Acts (Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:11). Full
article: Who wrote the book of Acts? Who was the author of Acts?
Date of Writing: The book of Acts was likely written between AD 61 and 64.
Brief Summary:
The book of Acts gives the history of the Christian church and the spread of the gospel of Jesus
Christ, as well as the mounting opposition to it. Although many faithful servants were used to
preach and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ, Saul, also called Paul, was the most influential.
Before he was converted, Paul zealously persecuted Christians. Paul’s dramatic conversion on
the Damascus road (Acts 9:1–31) is a highlight of the book of Acts. After his conversion he went
to the opposite extreme of loving God and preaching His Word with power and fervency in the
Spirit of the true and living God. The disciples were empowered by the Holy Spirit to be His
witnesses in Jerusalem (Acts 1—8:3), in Judea and Samaria (8:4—12:25), and to the ends of the
earth (13:1—28:31). Included in the last section are Paul’s three missionary journeys (13:1—
21:16), his trials in Jerusalem and Caesarea (21:17—26:32) and his journey to Rome (27:1—
28:31).
2. The Day of Pentecost (circa 30 AD)
Ten days after the Ascension, the disciples were gathered in Jerusalem when the Holy Spirit
descended upon them. This event, known as Pentecost, empowered the Apostles to preach
boldly in various languages (Acts 2:1-13). Peter delivered a powerful sermon that led to the
conversion of about 3,000 people (Acts 2:14-41).
Pentecost is so important because it marks the day when the Holy Spirit was poured out on all
believers, fulfilling Jesus' promise that he would send them another advocate (John 14:16). As
the Spirit descended on the Apostles, they went out from hiding and began to undertake the
evangelizing mission Christ left them with - so was the Church birthed on Pentecost Sunday.
The Holy Spirit builds, animates, and sanctifies Christ’s mystical body, the Church.
3. Early Church Formation
After Pentecost, the early Christian community began to take shape. They devoted themselves
to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). The church
grew rapidly, converting many Jews and Gentiles (Acts 2:47).
The Fellowship of the Believers (Acts 2:42-47 New American Standard Bible 1995)
42 They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to
fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe;
and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44 And all those who
had believed were together and had all things in common; 45 and they began selling
their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have
need. 46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking
bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness
and sincerity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And
the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
The disciples of Jesus devote themselves to learning from the apostles and taking care
of one another. They sell property to provide for their fellow believers. Everyone continues to
feel the fear of God in them as the apostles perform wonders and signs. New believers join
their community every day. 3000 new believers are baptized and join the disciples after Peter
preaches the gospel of Jesus and His resurrection to a crowd, and convicts the crowd of their
guilt in crucifying the Messiah.
Following the incredible events of Pentecost, we are told how "the church" begins. The
Bible calls "the church" the Body of Christ; it consists of all those on earth who have believed in
Jesus. It thrives from the very start. Believers in Jesus begin to live out His teachings. Now that
the Holy Spirit is guiding them, their lives are changed.
The disciples were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching.
The apostles were the 11 disciples, Jesus' core group of followers (Peter, James, John, and so
on) with the addition of Matthias who replaced Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:26). With 3000 new
disciples, there was plenty of teaching for the apostles to do. They had spent three years with
Jesus, learning from Him, learning His teachings (largely through making mistakes), and
ministering as He instructed them. They had a lot of personal experience and knowledge to
pass to these new followers. Jesus Himself had opened their minds to understand the Old
Testament scriptures (Luke 24:44-45). Of course, they were also teaching from the Holy Spirit's
guidance (John 14:26).
In addition to learning from the apostles, the disciples devoted themselves
to fellowship. To simply being together, getting to know one another, building friendships,
listening to and encouraging one another through trials and fears, and enjoying one another's
company. Fellowship means living and working in harmony with others. It is what brings
meaning, bounty, beauty, and fulfillment to life. A major key to restore and
maintain fellowship throughout scripture is forgiveness and confession of sin (1 John 1:1-
9; Matthew 6:10, 14)
The believers devoted themselves also to the breaking of bread. They shared meals
together, another sign of growing fellowship and closeness. This may also mean that they took
the Lord's Supper together in remembrance of Jesus and what the symbols of the bread and
wine represented spiritually. Jesus encourages us to respond to Him spiritually and have the
intimacy of dining with Him, as a means to gain a lasting wealth without limit (Revelation 3:18-
21).
Lastly, the disciples devoted themselves to prayer. They were continually talking with
God. Through prayer they probably praised God, just as they sang hymns during Pentecost
while waiting for the Holy Spirit. They were able to finally see Jesus's full mission, that He came
to die and resurrect for the forgiveness of their sins so that they could live rightly before God.
This stirred up thanksgiving and joy in their hearts. They must have felt like captives released
from prison, unshackled from the oppressive power of a sinful nature and enabled to follow
God (Romans 6:11-14).
4. Persecution and the Spread of the Gospel
The early church faced persecution from Jewish authorities and later from Roman
powers. Stephen, one of the first deacons, was martyred, which prompted a wider dispersion of
Christians from Jerusalem (Acts 7:54-60; 8:1-4). This dispersion led to the spread of Christianity
beyond Jewish communities, particularly to Samaria (Acts 8:5-25) and the Gentiles.
Persecution of Early Christians
Persecution of Christians began almost immediately after the death of Jesus Christ. The
early followers of Jesus faced opposition from Jewish religious leaders and Roman authorities.
Key events include:
Stephen's Martyrdom: Stephen, one of the first deacons, was stoned to death for his
faith, marking the beginning of widespread persecution (Acts 7:54-60).
Great Persecution: After Stephen's death, a great persecution broke out against the
church in Jerusalem, scattering believers throughout Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1).
Paul's Conversion: Saul of Tarsus, a zealous persecutor of Christians, experienced a
dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus and became Paul, one of the most
influential missionaries (Acts 9:1-19).
Imprisonment and Martyrdom: Many early Christians, including Peter and Paul, faced
imprisonment, beatings, and martyrdom for their faith (Acts 12:1-5, 2 Corinthians 11:23-
27).
Spread of the Gospel
Despite persecution, the message of Jesus Christ continued to spread rapidly across the Roman
Empire and beyond. Key factors include:
The Great Commission: Jesus instructed His disciples to spread the Gospel to all nations
(Mark 16:15).
Pentecost: The Holy Spirit empowered the apostles to preach in various languages,
leading to the conversion of about three thousand people (Acts 2:4-41).
Missionary Journeys: Paul and other apostles traveled extensively, establishing
churches in major cities across the Roman Empire (Acts 16-21).
Persecution as a Catalyst: Persecution often led to the scattering of believers, who then
preached the Gospel wherever they went (Acts 8:4).
5. Missions of the Apostles
The 12 Apostles were key figures in the early Christian church and played crucial roles in
spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ.
1. Peter (Simon Peter)
Peter is considered the leader of the apostles and was instrumental in establishing the early
church. He preached primarily in Jerusalem and Judea. According to tradition, Peter later
traveled to Rome, where he became the first bishop and was martyred under Emperor Nero.
2. James the Greater (James, son of Zebedee)
James the Greater preached in Jerusalem and Judea. He is believed to have traveled to Spain,
where he spent time evangelizing. James was the first apostle to be martyred, executed by
Herod Agrippa I in Jerusalem around 44 AD.
3. John (John the Apostle)
John, the brother of James the Greater, preached in Jerusalem and Ephesus. He is traditionally
believed to have taken care of Mary, the mother of Jesus, after the crucifixion. John was exiled
to the island of Patmos, where he wrote the Book of Revelation. He was the only apostle
believed to have died of natural causes.
4. Andrew
Andrew, the brother of Peter, is said to have preached in Scythia (modern-day Russia) and
Greece. He is also associated with the Black Sea region. Andrew was martyred by crucifixion on
an X-shaped cross in Patras, Greece.
5. Philip
Philip preached in Phrygia (modern-day Turkey) and Hierapolis. He is known for converting
many to Christianity through his preaching and miracles. Philip was martyred in Hierapolis by
crucifixion or stoning.
6. Bartholomew (Nathanael)
Bartholomew is believed to have preached in Armenia, Persia, and India. He is credited with
converting many people to Christianity in these regions. Bartholomew was martyred in
Armenia, where he was flayed alive and then beheaded.
7. Matthew (Levi)
Matthew, the former tax collector, preached in Judea and then traveled to Ethiopia and Persia.
He is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew was martyred by
being stabbed to death in Ethiopia.
8. Thomas (Didymus)
Thomas is known for his missionary work in India, particularly in the region of Kerala. He
established Christian communities and performed miracles. Thomas was martyred in India by
being pierced with spears.
9. James the Less (James, son of Alphaeus)
James the Less preached in Jerusalem and is believed to have led the early Christian
community there. He is credited with writing the Epistle of James. James the Less was martyred
by being thrown from the temple pinnacle and then beaten to death.
10. Jude (Thaddeus)
Jude, also known as Thaddeus, preached in Judea, Samaria, and Mesopotamia (modern-day
Iraq). He is believed to have traveled to Persia and Armenia with Simon the Zealot. Jude was
martyred in Persia by being beaten with a club.
11. Simon the Zealot
Simon the Zealot preached in Judea and later traveled to Egypt, North Africa, and Persia. He is
often associated with Jude (Thaddeus) in their missionary journeys. Simon was martyred in
Persia by being sawn in half.
12. Matthias
Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles. He preached in
Judea and is believed to have traveled to Ethiopia or the region around the Caspian Sea.
Matthias was martyred by crucifixion or stoning.
These apostles were pioneers in spreading Christianity and their legacies continue to influence
the faith today. Let me know if you want to dive deeper into any specific aspect of their lives or
missions!
13. Paul (Saul of Tarsus): Originally a persecutor of Christians, Paul converted after an
encounter with the risen Christ (Acts 9:1-19). He became one of the most influential Apostles,
undertaking multiple missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire (Acts 13-21). His
letters to various communities form a substantial part of the New Testament.
- Barnabas: Paul’s early companion, Barnabas traveled with him on missionary journeys,
encouraging and strengthening churches in places such as Cyprus and Asia Minor (Acts 13:1-3,
Acts 15:36-41).
6. The Council of Jerusalem (circa 49 AD)
This council addressed the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian faith and established that
they would not be required to follow all Jewish laws (Acts 15:1-29). This decision was crucial in
defining the nature and outreach of the church as a multi-ethnic community.
The Council of Jerusalem, also known as the Apostolic Council, was a pivotal early Christian
meeting held around AD 48-50. This council is described in Acts 15 of the New Testament and
possibly in Paul's letter to the Galatians (chapter 2).
Key Participants
The council was attended by key figures in early Christianity, including:
James the Just: Leader of the early Christian community in Jerusalem and Jesus' brother.
Peter the Apostle: One of Jesus' original twelve apostles.
John the Apostle: Another of Jesus' original twelve apostles.
Paul the Apostle: A prominent missionary and writer of many New Testament letters.
Barnabas: Paul's companion and fellow missionary.
Purpose and Issues Discussed
The primary issue at the council was whether Gentile converts to Christianity needed to follow
the Mosaic Law, particularly the practice of circumcision. This debate arose because some
Jewish Christians from Jerusalem insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised according
to Jewish custom2.
Decisions Made
The council decided that Gentile converts did not need to follow most of the Mosaic Law,
including circumcision. However, they were asked to abstain from eating blood or meat
containing blood, meat of animals that were strangled, and idolatry and fornication. This
decision is sometimes referred to as the Apostolic Decree.
Significance
The Council of Jerusalem was significant because it demonstrated the early church's willingness
to adapt and make compromises to maintain unity and peace. It also marked a major step in
the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian community without requiring them to fully adopt
Jewish customs2.
By the end of the first century, Christianity had transitioned from a small Jewish sect into a
diverse movement that reached various parts of the Roman Empire. Apostolic missions laid the
groundwork for a faith that would grow in the face of persecution and theological
development, establishing a foundation that would shape the future of Christianity.
SAINT AUGUSTINE on The unity of the Church commended to us by Christ (Sermon 265,12).
So consider, brothers and sisters, what it is that you should love supremely, what you
should hold on to with all your strength. The Lord, glorified by rising again, commends the
Church to us; on the point of being glorified by ascending into heaven, he commends the
Church to us; sending the Holy Spirit from heaven, he commends the Church to us. When he
rises again, after all, what does he say to his disciples? These are the things I told you while I
was still with you, that it was necessary for everything to be fulfilled that is written about me in
the law and the prophets and the psalms. And then he opened their minds to understand the
scriptures, and he said to them: Since thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ
to suffer, and to rise again from the dead on the third day. Where is the commendation of the
Church? And for repentance and the forgiveness of sins to be preached in his name. And where
was that to be? Through all nations, with you beginning from Jerusalem (Lk 24:44-47). That's
when he was glorified by his resurrection. What about when he was on the point of being
glorified by his ascension? What you heard: You shall be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, and in
the whole of Judea and Samaria, and as far as the ends of the earth (Acts 1 :8). What about with
the coming of the Holy Spirit? The Holy Spirit came; those whom he first filled started speaking
in the tongues of all nations.26 Each man speaking all languages—what else could it mean but
unity in all languages? Let us hold on to this, be confirmed in this, be stiffened and
strengthened in this, fixed solidly in this with unshaken charity, and in this way let us praise,
boys, the Lord, and say alleluia. But just in one part? And where from? And how far? From the
rising of the sun to the setting, praise the name of the Lord (Ps 113:2-3).
SUMMARY: Watch this video clip: How Pentecost Transformed the Early Church
VALUING
Write an essay reflecting how you value the contributions of the Apostles in the foundation
of the Church.
EXTENDING
Make an illustration depicting the spread of Christianity during the time of the Apostles.
Closing Prayer: Augustinian Prayer After Class
Sources
AUGUSTINIAN HERITAGE [Link] WORKS OF SAINTA UGUSTINE A Translation for the
21st Century Part III —Sermons Volume 7: Sermons 230-272B.
[Link]
Chadwick, H. (1993). *The early church: From the apostles to the Council of Nicaea*. Penguin
Books.
[Link] - 659-667
The Holy Bible. The New Revised Stamdard Version.
Woodhead, L. (2014). *Christianity: A very short introduction*. Oxford University Press.
[Link] is the significance of
Matthew 28:19-20?
[Link] of the Book of Acts - Bible Survey |
[Link]
[Link] of early Christianity | Beliefs,
Characteristics, Organization, & Map | Britannica
[Link] Copilot: Your AI companion
Submitted by:
DR. FLOR P. HUBAG
CRS Faculty Member
Checked and Approved:
FR. JEBIE U. JUGARAP, OSA
CRS Director