Abstract
Christianity initially was met with critical scrutiny and hostile response yet endured and withstood this reaction and, even more, attracted many converts and increased its popularity and influence. Sources of Data Numerous primary and secondary works, particularly focused on the social conditions of the early part of Late Antiquity, were used. Conclusions Reached Christianity established itself in the Roman Empire by challenging its critics and, even more, by meeting the material and spiritual needs of the inhabitants of the Empire.