Introduction
The conciliar model as described in Acts 15 contributed much to the successful spread and development of Christianity. Before Emperor Constantine declared freedom of religion in the Roman Empire, the number of Christians remained small, with groups often being separated one from the other in order to avoid persecution. Their interactions with the gentiles remained clandestine, and they lacked any formal command structure within their congregations.
Discussion
After the rise of the first Christian Emperor, Christianity gained much popularity, with the number of faithful or those interested in it growing exponentially. As such, the Church required to be reformed to accommodate these new members and prevent chaos and the splitting of the doctrine due to various misinterpretations and heresies arising along with it. The conciliar model provided the Church with a framework of governance within the organization, the division of labor and responsibility, and the means to coordinate between different territories and congregations, from large cities even to small villages.
Justin Martyr’s discussion of the gospel helps create space for Gentiles by essentially spreading the scope of religion from the Israelites to everyone. The figure of Christ and his sacrifice does not differentiate between nations, instead utilizing the only criterion for being enlightened – the acceptance of His sacrifice for everyone’s sins, and the realization that after this event had occurred, everyone is responsible for their own behavior and their dedication to the Gospel.
Conclusion
At the same time, it is highlighted that the punishment for sins is seen in remorse for their actions, thus giving a chance for redemption even after the death of Christ on the cross. Had this not been the case, the religion of Christianity would not have spread as far as it did.