Very well written and argued. I am looking forward to part 2.

I have a couple of comments. The Christianity of Constantine and the Roman Empire incorporated an imperial theology from Rome. Jesus, according to Scripture allowed the Romans to kill him. Jesus praised peace maker, not conquerors. The Romans were polytheistic but would kill you for refusing to participate in the Imperial cult. Their motto was peace through victory. Victory meant killing everyone who resisted you.

The other point, as mentioned by other commentators is the danger of a single story. Christians founded Georgia as a haven for the poor and banned alcohol and slavery. The policy was reversed after failing to attract settlers. Likewise Trump’s racism was learned in the Real Estate business when white tenants rejected Black neighbors. Christians have done countless Good in the world, and great Evil.

My final thought, and I frequently ask my students this, is what blinders will future generations accuse you of? Another one of Jesus’ teachings, is that we will be judged by the same standard that we judge others. The danger of “presentism" is very real in any inquiry.

Keep up the great research and writing.