The question of why more people did not convert to Christianity in the early years, despite accounts of miracles performed by Christians, involves a complex interplay of social, cultural, religious, and political factors. The New Testament records numerous instances of miracles performed by Jesus and His apostles, which served as signs of God’s power and the truth of the Gospel message (John 20:30-31). After the ascension of Jesus, the book of Acts and various epistles in the New Testament also attest to miracles performed by the apostles and early Christians, which were intended to authenticate their message and demonstrate the presence of the Holy Spirit among them (Acts 2:43; 5:12; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11).

Despite these miraculous signs, there were several reasons why not everyone converted to Christianity:

1. Social and Cultural Resistance: Christianity emerged in a highly pluralistic society, with a wide array of religions and philosophies coexisting within the Roman Empire. Converting to Christianity often meant abandoning traditional gods and religious practices, which could lead to social ostracization, conflict within families, and economic repercussions, especially for those whose livelihoods were tied to pagan religious practices.
2. Persecution: Early Christians faced periods of sporadic persecution from both Jewish authorities and Roman officials. Persecution ranged from social marginalization and economic sanctions to imprisonment, torture, and execution. The risk of persecution was a significant deterrent to conversion for many.
3. Exclusivity of the Christian Message: Christianity’s claim that salvation is found exclusively in Jesus Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12) was a stumbling block for many. In a polytheistic society that often valued religious syncretism and tolerance among various gods and religious practices, the exclusive claims of Christianity were countercultural and, to some, offensive.
4. Misunderstandings and Misrepresentations: Early Christians were often misunderstood and misrepresented by those outside the faith. Accusations against Christians included atheism (for not worshiping the Roman gods), cannibalism (a gross misinterpretation of the Lord’s Supper), and anti-social behavior. Such misunderstandings hindered the spread of the Gospel.
5. Divine Timing and Sovereignty: The spread of Christianity is also subject to the sovereignty of God, who works in history according to His purposes and timing. The book of Acts, for example, portrays the spread of the Gospel as guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit, leading to the conversion of individuals and communities according to God’s plan.

Despite these obstacles, Christianity did grow, from a small Jewish sect to a significant religious force within the Roman Empire by the time of Constantine’s conversion in the early 4th century. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including the transformative power of the Gospel message, the moral and ethical distinctiveness of Christian communities, and the commitment of early Christians to evangelism, discipleship, and charity.

In summary, while miracles played a role in the early Christian witness, the spread of Christianity was influenced by a wide range of factors. Its growth, despite opposition and persecution, is seen by believers as evidence of the truth of its message and the power of God at work.