We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5
Justin Martyr (c. 165)
Persuasive Writer
Justin was one of the greatest early Christian apologists and philosophers, and his skill in arguing persuasively for the Christian faith led to his martyrdom. He was born at Flavia, Neapolis, to Greek parents in around 100 and became a Christian aged around 30 while studying at Ephesus. There Justin witnessed and was impressed by the faithfulness of the Christian martyrs and also met an elderly Christian man whose character made an impression upon him. The man spoke to him about how Jesus was the fulfilment of God’s promises to the Jews. Justin described his reaction: “Straightaway a flame was kindled in my soul, and a love of the prophets and those who are friends of Christ possessed me.”
Justin was well educated, and he engaged in debates with non-Christians of various beliefs. He opened a school of Christian philosophy first at Ephesus and then later in Rome. Three of his writings survive, two Apologies and the Dialogue with Trypho; they persuasively contend for the Gospel and were intended to convince pagans to turn to Christ.
Justin was arrested following a debate in Rome with a celebrated Cynic philosopher, Crescens. It is thought that Crescens lost the debate and denounced Justin to the authorities out of spite. He was charged with practising an unauthorised religion and brought for trial before the Roman prefect Rusticus. Justin refused to renounce Christ, so he was executed along with six of his students in c. 165.
No one makes us afraid or leads us into captivity as we have set our faith on Jesus. For though we are beheaded, and crucified, and exposed to beasts and chains and fire and all other forms of torture, it is plain that we do not forsake the confession of our faith, but the more things of this kind which happen to us the more are there others who become believers and truly religious through the name of Jesus.
Justin Martyr (c. 100-c. 165)