Immense persecution was the common experience among Christians during the 2nd and 3rd Century. Roman Caesars and magistrates were oftentimes highly skeptical of the adherents to this new religion and many feared the effects that would be brought on by its rising interest and influence around the various regions of the Empire. Some supposed that if heat was applied, the sparks of this growing movement would be snuffed out. But, as one Early Church Father (Tertullian) rightly said: “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” The Church continued to grow rapidly despite bouts of intense and widespread persecution.
In AD 155, the bishop from the church in Smyrna became one of the most famous martyrs of the 2nd Century. His name was Polycarp. He was an old man by this time and is believed to have been acquainted with and learned from John the Apostle. Being brought before a large crown in a Roman amphitheater, Polycarp was asked to deny Christ and proclaim Caesar as Lord. Hear how Bruce L. Shelley records this event in his work entitled, “Church History in Plain Language” :
The authorities brought the highly respected pastor into the crowded arena, prepared to shove him to the lions–but only reluctantly. They much preferred a denial of the charge against him. He was a Christian.
“Simply swear by Caesar,” the governor pled.
“I am a Christian,” said Polycarp. “If you want to know what that is, set a day and listen.”
“Persuade the people,” answered the governor. Polycarp said, “I would explain to you, but not to them.”
“Then I’ll throw you to the beasts.”
“Bring on your beasts,” said Polycarp.
“If you scorn the beasts, I’ll have you burned.”
“You try to frighten me with the fire that burns for an hour, and you forget the fire of hell that never goes out.”
The governor called to the people, “Polycarp says he is a Christian.” Then the mob let loose. “This is the teacher of Asia,” they shouted, “the father of the Christians, the destroyer of our gods.”
So Polycarp, praying that his death would be an acceptable sacrifice, was burned at the stake.
The scene is real. It did happen. (1)
Over the next few Centuries it was common for the saints to celebrate certain days throughout the year to commemorate the death of many of these martyrs of the faith. Polycarp’s actions in the face of impending death by fire demonstrates for us a steadfast resolve to trust the Savior of the world, even in the last moments of his life.
“Renounce Christ,” demanded the Roman governor. “For 86 years I have been His servant,” Polycarp replied, “and He has never done me any wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and my Saviour?” (2)
I’m reminded of Christ’s final words recorded in the gospel according to Matthew: “and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20b - NASB95) Are you trusting His words today? Will you trust them on your deathbed? In trial, tribulation, or persecution? He is with you always, Dear Saint! Has He ever done you any wrong?? Polycarp is the voice of one; his testimony bears witness to the faithfulness of God. Trust the Lord with every breath of your life.
Shelley, Bruce L., “Church History in Plain Language,” 2nd ed., (Thomas Nelson Publishers: Nashville, 1995), pg. 37.
Needham, Nick. “2000 Years of Christ’s Power,” vo. 1: “The Age of the Early Church Fathers”. (Grace Publications, Christian Focus Publications Ltd: Scotland, 2016), pg. 106.
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