The Domitian Persecution

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Domitian Persecution (81-96 AD):
The Christian persecution under Emperor Domitian represents a significant yet often overlooked chapter in the history of the early Church. Domitian, who ruled from 81 to 96 AD, cultivated an environment of fear and suspicion, particularly among those who defied the imperial cult and traditional Roman religious practices. His reign is marked by an increase in authoritarianism and a demand for loyalty that often led to persecution, especially against groups seen as threats to the stability of the Empire, including Christians.
Domitian’s reign followed a period of relative stability under his brother Titus, who had garnered popularity. However, Domitian’s approach to governance starkly contrasted with Titus’s more benevolent rule. His paranoia regarding loyalty and conspiracy, fueled by a series of political purges, created a climate in which dissent—whether real or perceived—was met with harsh reprisals. Domitian self-identied as a divine ruler and demanded that his subjects address him with titles such as “Lord” and “God,” creating a direct conflict with the Christian belief in the sole divinity of Jesus Christ. Consequently, Christians’ steadfast refusal to acknowledge the emperor’s divinity became grounds for accusations of rebellion and treason, leading to severe punishments, including exile, imprisonment, and execution. These charges were often exaggerated or fabricated by local officials or hostile neighbors looking to eliminate their rivals or settle personal scores.
St. John the Apostle has been traditionally believed to have been exiled to the island of Patmos during Domitian’s reign. It was here where he received the Revelation. His writings emphasize perseverance under persecution and provide theological insights into the nature of Christ and the Church. The Book of Revelation mentions at least one instance of martyrdom (Rev 2:13; cf. 6:9), and many scholars attribute the eighth king in Rev 17:10-11 to Domitian. St. Clement of Rome was martyred in the last year of Domitian’s reign, in 96 AD, by being tied to an anchor and thrown into the sea.
In his Church History, Eusebius, says;
“in the fifteenth year of Domitian, Flavia Domitilla, daughter of a sister of Flavius Clement, who at that time was one of the consuls of Rome, was exiled with many others to the island of Pontia in consequence of testimony borne to Christ.” -Eusebius, Church History 3:18
Saints Nereus and Achilleus were eunuchs and chamberlains of Flavia Domitilla. Along with Flavia, they had been banished to the island of Ponza (Pontia), and later beheaded. Nereus and Achilleus were buried in a very ancient part of the Catacomb of Domitilla, built as far back as the beginning of the 2nd century and their names are mentioned in the Martyrology.
For further reading, see: “The Rise of Christianity” by Rodney Stark