Polycarp urged orderly shepherding, trustworthy service, household faithfulness, disciplined purity, and prayerful respect for authorities.
The Letter of Polycarp to the Philippians, Congregational Order
The Letter of Polycarp to the Philippians, Christology and Salvation
Polycarp distinguished Jehovah and Christ, exalted Jesus as Savior and High Priest, and urged salvation as a lifelong course of obedient endurance.
The Letter of Polycarp to the Philippians, Occasion and Setting
Polycarp wrote to steady the Philippians in unity and holiness, urging endurance under hostility and fidelity to apostolic Scripture.
Second-Century Christianity, The Post-Apostolic Age
Second-century Christianity faced empire hostility and internal corruption, yet faithful congregations clung to Scripture and confessed Christ.
Polycarp of Smyrna, Disciple of the Apostle John
Polycarp of Smyrna confessed Christ under public pressure, refused emperor worship, and modeled loyal endurance grounded in Scripture and resurrection hope.
Dionysius of Corinth was the Overseer of Corinth in about 171 A.D.
Dionysius of Corinth, also known as Saint Dionysius, was the bishop of Corinth in about the year 171.
EARLY CHRISTIANITY: Were the Apostolic Fathers Truly Apostolic?
Being apostolic would mean that they retained the teachings of the apostle. Even Today, with all of the manuscripts and historical evidence, it is still difficult to determine just how closely the teachings of the Apostolic Fathers resembled to or agreed with Jesus’ teachings. The objective of these men was undoubtedly altruistic (noble), seeking to protect or support (make known) a certain orthodox Christianity. They denounced idolatry and loose morals. They believed that Jesus is the divine Son of God and that he was resurrected. However, they were not able to hold back the growing wave of apostasy. Sadly, being honest, some of them contributed to it.
EARLY CHRISTIANITY: The Apostolic Fathers
Between A.D. 95 and about 165, a number of works were written by men who had known the apostles and the apostolic doctrine; they are known as the Apostolic Fathers.
EARLY CHRISTIANITY: Ignatius of Antioch (c. 35-50 – c. 98-117 AD) – Early Christian Writings
Ignatius of Antioch [c.35-50 – c. 98-117 AD] also known as Ignatius Theophorus was an early Christian writer and bishop of Antioch. While en route to Rome, where he met his martyrdom, Ignatius wrote a series of letters.
EARLY CHRISTIANITY: Papias of Hierapolis (c. 60-135 AD) – Enjoyed the Lord’s Sayings
Papias was a Greek Apostolic Father, Bishop of Hierapolis, and author who lived c. 60 – c. 135 AD. He wrote the Exposition of the Sayings of the Lord in five books.
