When the early Christian church began to grow, few cities carried as much weight in the ancient world as Rome. Known as the heart of the empire, Rome was not only a political powerhouse but also a cultural, religious, and economic center that shaped the lives of its citizens—and posed unique challenges for the followers of Jesus. Understanding the culture of Rome in the first century gives us a clearer picture of the environment in which the gospel first took root.
A City of Power and Prestige
Rome was the capital of the Roman Empire, the largest empire the world had ever known. Its streets were filled with senators, soldiers, merchants, and slaves. Political authority flowed from the emperor, who was seen not only as a ruler but, increasingly, as divine. To live in Rome was to live under the shadow of imperial power, where loyalty to Caesar was considered an essential civic virtue.
Religion and Idolatry
Religious life in Rome was deeply pluralistic. Temples, shrines, and household gods (the lares and penates) were woven into the fabric of society. Roman religion was highly ritualistic—focused less on personal belief and more on correct practices to secure favor from the gods. Emperor worship grew especially prominent in the first century, making refusal to honor Caesar a dangerous act. For Christians, who proclaimed that “Jesus is Lord,” this cultural expectation often brought them into direct conflict with Roman authorities.
Social Hierarchy and Daily Life
Roman culture was structured around a rigid social hierarchy. At the top were senators and equestrians—wealthy elites who held land and power. The middle class included artisans, tradesmen, and freedmen. At the bottom were slaves, who made up a significant portion of Rome’s population and economy. This social order was reinforced through patronage systems, where the wealthy provided protection and resources in exchange for loyalty and service.
Christians, however, introduced a radical new vision of community. In the church, slaves and masters, men and women, Jews and Gentiles gathered as equals before Christ. This was revolutionary in a society built on division and status.
Entertainment and Morality
Roman culture was known for its grand entertainment. Gladiatorial games, chariot races, and theatrical performances drew massive crowds. While these events were celebrated as symbols of Roman identity, they also reflected the brutality and decadence of the culture. The early church’s emphasis on holiness, compassion, and the sanctity of life often stood in stark contrast to the violence and immorality that permeated Roman public life.
Persecution and Witness
For the early Christians in Rome, faith was not practiced in a cultural vacuum. Declaring allegiance to Christ meant rejecting the gods of Rome and the cult of the emperor, which led to suspicion, slander, and at times, outright persecution. The fire of AD 64 under Emperor Nero marked one of the first major waves of violence against Christians, who were scapegoated and brutally punished. Yet, the courage and steadfastness of believers in Rome became a powerful witness, fueling the spread of the gospel across the empire.
Conclusion
The culture of Rome during the early church was one of power, wealth, diversity, and idolatry. It was both a place of opportunity and opposition for followers of Jesus. While Roman society prized status, entertainment, and loyalty to the emperor, the early Christians modeled humility, holiness, and loyalty to Christ. In the very heart of the empire, the gospel quietly but powerfully spread—turning the world upside down from within Rome itself.