Chapter 2, Tiberius to Nero Summary and Analysis

In Book 2, Eusebius has compiled the works of Clement, Tertullian, Josephus and Philo to tell a story about the time between Tiberius and Nero Caesar, which covers the period from the appointment of Matthias to replace Judas to the deaths of Peter and Paul. First, Eusebius discusses how the apostles lived after Christ's ascension. Soon after Christ's death, St. Stephen was martyred, the first Christian to die for Christ. Paul still persecuted the Church and the disciples of Jesus had been dispersed. The Church entered a new stage when Saul became Paul.

The story of Christ's ascension spread across the world quickly, and people discussed it all over Palestine. Even Emperor Tiberius heard of it. The Roman senate considered recognizing Jesus as a god but declined. Tertullian recorded this. The Gospel message was off to...