Final answer:
During the Great Persecution, Diocletian ordered the killing and torture of Christians, but this act inspired Christians and strengthened their numbers through perseverance.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the Great Persecution, Diocletian ordered the killing and torture of Christians, but the act of persecution actually inspired Christians and strengthened their numbers through perseverance. The persecution aimed to wipe out Christianity and restore traditional Roman cults. Christians were arrested, tortured, and even condemned to gladiatorial contests. However, this persecution ultimately failed, and the Great Persecution ended in 311 when Christians were granted the right to practice their religion.