The Ultimate Sacrifice In The Roman Empire

Sacrifice is never easy, especially when it cost the loss of more than just possessions, but one’s own life. Martyrs are ones that made an ultimate sacrifice during the Roman empire. They would go against the Roman authorities by making two different choices. Christians had the choice between denying their faith to say they believe in “pagan gods” or to sacrifice themselves to hold true to their beliefs in their Christian faith. Perpetua and Felicity are an example of Christians who had chosen to stay strong to their faith. Martyrs are a symbol of ones who are devoted to Christ in all facets and will put forward sacrifice to stand with Him. Through various examples of Christian martyrs, it is illustrated on how they impact us today, as well

Polycarp put an end to persecution through his martyrdom as though adding the seal. He appointed bishop of church of Symythia. Those who are anxious about their salvation can learn from his character and the preaching of the truth. The martyrs in this story believed that “the fire of their cruel torturers had no heat.” Instead, they looked “up to the good things which are preserved for those who have endured.” In chapter 9, the Pro-council wanted Polycarp to deny his faith; Polycarp replied with that fact that he cannot deny Christ. He had been a servant for eighty-six years and Christ never did him wrong. He said, “how can I blaspheme my King, who saved me?” Polycarp refuses everything that the Pagan officials ask him to do and he was there forth persecuted. Indeed, this is another outline of what it means to be

Every martyr made each Christian stronger, because if they did deny their faith then would Christianity be what it is today? It takes strong, likeminded people to make a change. A huge impact came from, Justin Martyr, who was an apologist and he wrote an apology to Antoninus Pius and the senate. He challenges their misinformation that Roman intellectuals had about the faith. Christians were immoral and accused of practicing incest. Justin tells them that Christians are the highest mortality. They pay their taxes and they are generous, kind, and peaceful. Justin also argues that anyone who had ruled by reason (logos) was Christian without even knowing it. Furthermore, he did become a martyr and was a part of making Christianity