THE CO-OPERATION OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH AND THE STATE FOR MUTUAL SUPPORT AND BENEFIT BEGAN IN ROME IN 312 C.E. WHEN THE EMPEROR CONSTANTINE INVADED ITALY IN AN ATTEMPT TO SEIZE CONTROL OF ROME...

The article focuses on the historical development of the cooperation between the Christian Church and the State, beginning in Rome in 312 C.E. with Emperor Constantine's adoption of Christianity as the empire's dominant religion following his victory at the Milvian Bridge. Constantine's alliance with the Church helped unify the Roman Empire and established a model of mutual support, where the Church adopted Roman organizational methods and the State used religious authority to legitimize political power. This symbiotic relationship persisted through history, exemplified by England's Henry VIII, who established the Church of England to assert royal authority over religious matters. The article also notes contemporary parallels, highlighting concerns about political candidates leveraging religious support to influence governance.