Jumpstarter 2 of 10

Direct Answer The transcript suggests second-century Christians expected social hostility, misunderstanding, and even legal persecution as normal, because their “not of the world” life was publicly different—not merely an inner belief.

Support from Transcript:

• An AD 130 writing says Christians are “persecuted by all,” “unknown and condemned,” and “put to death, but will be restored to life.”
• A pagan critic mocks them for rejecting normal Roman life: “You don’t attend sporting events… no interest in public amusements… reject the public banquets… abhor the sacred games.”
• The critic also attacks their low status: “the majority of you are in want, are cold, are hungry… your God allows it.”
• He notes they “despise honors and purple robes,” implying they refused status-seeking.
• Bercot summarizes early practice: they “rejected the world’s entertainment, honors, and riches.”
• “Not of the world” did not mean withdrawing from moral concern; they “obey the prescribed laws, and… surpass the laws by their lives.”