Rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire By Ian Alder 63 BCE Roman Rule of Israel Period: 4 BCE to 33 Jesus of Nazareth Period: 4 BCE to 62 Paul of Tarsus 64 The great fire of Rome Nero blamed the start of the fire on the Christians, as their part of town wasn't touched. 203 Perpetua Period: 272 to 337 constantine the great 303 Great Persecution of 303 312 Battle of Milvian Bridge 313 Edict of Milan Period: 347 to 395 Emperor Theodosius