The Case of Polycarp
Tracey J. Kinney
The Problematic Martyrdom of Polycarp
The document that follows has been the subject of ongoing historical debate. Questions have been raised about the dating of the original document (with estimates ranging between 155 and 167 CE),[1] the accuracy of its contents, the nature of its composition, and its authorship. Some have gone so far as to argue that the text is wholly a work of fiction, designed simply to draw converts to the faith.[2] Nonetheless, “The Martyrdom of Polycarp” has been highly influential in shaping our understanding and image of early Christian martyrs. As to Polycarp himself, we have only fragmentary information. He is considered to be a crucial figure in early Christian history having been born at the end of the apostolic era. His writings emphasize the importance of the Apostle Paul/Saul and his interpretation of Christianity. As you read the document, consider the way that the author has chosen to tell the story of Polycarp’s martyrdom and the essential points that have been highlighted.
The Martyrdom of Polycarp
THE church of God which sojourns at Smyrna, to the church of God sojourning in Philomelium and to all the congregations of the holy and catholic church in every place: Mercy, peace, and love from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, be multiplied.
Chap. i.—Subject of which we write.
We have written to you, brethren, as to what relates to the martyrs, and especially to the blessed Polycarp, who put an end to the persecution, having, as it were, set a seal upon it by his martyrdom. For almost all the events that happened previously [to this one], took place that the Lord might show us from above a martyrdom becoming the gospel. For he waited to be delivered up, even as the Lord had done, that we also might become his followers, while we look not merely at what concerns ourselves, but have regard also to our neighbours. For it is the part of a true and well-founded love, not only to wish one’s self to be saved, but also all the brethren.
Chap. ii.—The wonderful constancy of the martyrs.
All the martyrdoms, then, were blessed and noble which took place according to the will of God. For it becomes us who profess greater piety than others, to ascribe the authority over all things to God. And truly, who can fail to admire their nobleness of mind, and their patience, with that love towards their Lord which they displayed?—who, when they were so torn with scourges, that the frame of their bodies, even to the very inward veins and arteries, was laid open, still patiently endured, while even those that stood by pitied and bewailed them. But they reached such a pitch of magnanimity, that not one of them let a sigh or a groan escape them; thus proving to us all that those holy martyrs of Christ, at the very time when they suffered such torments, were absent from the body, or rather, that the Lord then stood by them, and communed with them. And, looking to the grace of Christ, they de