SS Outline 6.15.25

Title: Persecution in the Second Century
Subject: Continued persecutions and the church’s responses


I. Introduction: Fire Refines Faith

• The Roman Empire under Hadrian (117–138) and Marcus Aurelius (161–180):
  • Official policy did not always target Christians directly, but persecution was frequent and tolerated.
  • Christians were accused of atheism (for rejecting Roman gods), cannibalism (misunderstanding the Lord’s Supper), and incest (calling one another “brother” and “sister”).

II. Justin Martyr

• Born c. AD 100 in Samaria. Raised in a pagan family.
• First Apology (addressed to Emperor Antoninus Pius): Christianity is not a threat to the Empire, but morally virtuous.
• Dialogue with Trypho: A defense of Christianity against Judaism.

III. The Apologists Defend the Faith

• Refute slanders and rumors (e.g., cannibalism, incest, political disloyalty).
• Show the reasonableness of Christianity.
• Appeal to Roman law and justice.
• Methods:
  • Philosophical arguments
  • Ethical appeal
  • Historical continuity (prophecies fulfilled in Christ)

IV. Rome's Response and Justin’s Death

• Justin was arrested with six companions, questioned, and refused to renounce Christ.

V. Lessons for the Church Today

• Biblical Charge: 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
• What does Justin teach us about intellectual engagement and faith?
• How do we respond to false accusations against the church today?
• What would it look like to be a faithful apologist in our own time?