Argument that Roman cultural attitudes toward Christians in 50-year span (first to early second century) remained consistent, so early second-century sources reflect first-century reality

Mike argues Roman culture did not change dramatically in 50 years. The same hostility reflected in Pliny and Tacitus was the same attitude present earlier. Christians refused to burn incense to Roman gods, which Romans interpreted as a threat to divine protection and national welfare, making persecution a logical and consistent Roman response throughout the period.