LIFE OF CONSTANTINE BY EUSEBIUS COMMENTED

There probably was not in the whole church during the first decade of the fourth century, a more learned Christian than Eusebius of Caesarea. Phrases such as the one quoted at the beginning of this chapter, however, have led many historians to claim that Eusebius capitulated to imperial power. In the opinion of these historians, Eusebius was a man of weak character who, when surrounded by the pomp of the Empire, bowed before her, and stood to serve the emperor's interests rather than those of Jesus Christ. But before venturing to make this judgment it is convenient for us to pause to recount the life and work of this wise Christian, so as to better understand his reactions and attitudes.