Impact of Martyrs on The Church (First Two Cen.) 0.0 / 5 ? Religious StudiesChristianityEarly ChurchASCCEA Created by: Erin WCreated on: 19-11-17 14:26 Intro Before the third century, cases of martyrdom—on a government sponsored level—were sporadic and usually isolated. However, it was the early martyrs who inspired the Christians after them to convert to Christianity and even offer their lives for Christ. "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church."—Tertullian. 1 of 7 Justin 100–165 C.E. Teacher and founder of Christian catechetical school. "I, too, expect to be persecuted and crucified"—predicted his martyrdom in his Second Apology. Him and students ordered to sacrifice to the pagan gods—they refused. "No one in his right mind gives up piety for impiety." The account of his death—the faithful took the bodies of the seven and buried them. These places were to become places first of remembrance, then worship, and eventually churches of early Christianity. He is an example of how Christians saw martyrdom as a path to heaven. 2 of 7 Blandina 177 C.E. The miracles that occurred encouraged people to believe in Christianity. Presented as food—left untouched. "Blandina is to be numbered among the world's great heroines"—Frend. Hung on a post in the shape of a cross—mirroring Christ. Her suffering shocked and inspired people to convert. 3 of 7 Polycarp Earliest case outside the Bible— 160 C.E. Bishop of Smyrna and disciple of the Apostle John. Burnt to death. Letter to the Philippians—beware of heresies and apostasy. Blue-print for all future descriptions of martyr's deaths. The Church in Smyrna showed a willingness to revere martyrs in their letters. Followed the practice of holding a celebration of day of death. 4 of 7 Ignatius 108 C.E. "Follow, all of you, the bishop, as Jesus Christ followed the Father"—letter to Polycarp. Seemed keen to be martyred—expressing faith in the ultimate manner. "Martyrdom was meaningful because it was an act of the Holy Spirit"—Matkin. Suggests that martyrdom is something Christians should aspire to. Created the culture of worshipping martyrs and following in their footsteps. 5 of 7 Other Points Heroes to be imitated. Origin of the veneration of the saints. Emergence of martyr-specific church architecture—shrines. Liturgical cycle of festivals for martyrs. Importance and use of relics in the church's devotions. Martyrs as models of Christian loyalty. Martyrological literature—Polycarp's letters. 6 of 7 Conclusion Whilst the deaths of martyrs reduced the Christian population, the amount of people converted outnumbers the loss. Bravery and dignified deaths inspired people to convert. Martyrdom gave credence to Christianity—why would people die for a false religion? The ultimate contest—a spiritual battle against the powers of hell encouraged unity between Christians. 7 of 7
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