Persecution of Christians

The extent of Domitian’s persecution of Christians has been a matter of debate. According to early church historian Eusebius, Domitian was the second after Nero to authorize harsh persecution against Christians (Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History, 3.17). In another instance, Eusebius records that Domitian personally exiled Flavia Domitilla and her husband, a Roman consul named Flavius Clemens who was also Domitian’s cousin (Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History, 3.18.4). Eusebius writes that Flavius Domitilla was banished for her Christian faith, while Cassius Dio believed that she was banished for atheism (most likely meaning she sympathized with Judaism and, by default, Christianity; Roman History, 67.14).

Some early historians see Domitian’s reign as the backdrop for the book of Revelation, as John may have been exiled to Patmos under the reign of Domitian (Irenaeus, Adversus Haereses, 5.30; Rev 6:9; 7:14; 12:11; 20:4). Tertullian writes that Domitian was much like Nero and attempted persecution; however, he quickly reversed his decision and restored the Christians whom he had banished (Apology, 5). There is no clear evidence of any widespread, anti-Christian legislation during Domitian’s reign (Barnes, “Legislation Against the Christians,” 32–34), but as a “Jewish sect” they were subjected to both “examination” (Pliny the Younger, Letters 10.96.1) and taxation (Suetonius, Domitian 12.2). Thus, while Christian persecution seemingly took place under Domitian, it was likely in isolated instances and not the result of authoritative action from the emperor.