CH 1, ¶18

In summary, one may conclude several things concerning the earliest founders of the Christian religion: 1) Its Author and his immediate disciples exerted themselves to spread their ideas; 2) Such propagation was done in the midst of persecution and dangers; 3) That both government and culture in general must have forced them into a constant fear for their safety; and 4) That their conduct was in harmony with the moral and ethical principles which their own religion promoted. (Makinson)