Apostolic Fathers
Letter to the Philippians & Martyrdom of Polycarp
Polycarp of Smyrna · c. 110 – 155
Historical Context
Polycarp, a disciple of John the Apostle and bishop of Smyrna, wrote to the Philippians shortly after Ignatius passed through; the Martyrdom of Polycarp is an eyewitness account of his death (c. 155–156).
Summary
The letter is a pastoral mosaic of New Testament citations urging righteousness, almsgiving, and steadfastness. The Martyrdom is the first detailed Christian martyrology outside the New Testament, modeled on Christ's passion and shaping the theology of martyrdom and the cult of the saints.
Major Themes
- Imitation of Christ
- Steadfast confession
- Veneration of martyrs
- Continuity with the apostles
Important Quotations
“Eighty and six years have I served Him, and He has done me no wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King and my Saviour?”— Martyrdom of Polycarp 9
Related Timeline Events
Related Church Fathers
Related Doctrines
Primary Sources
Further Reading
- Paul Hartog, Polycarp's Epistle to the Philippians and the Martyrdom of Polycarp