Christian Apologetics in the second century was the beginning
of the defense of Christianity; it argues for the “superiority of Christian
morals” and establishes Christians as the most desirable people because of
their belief system that makes them trustworthy, hardworking, and conscientious
citizenry.[1]
Apologists were defenders of the faith, they answered charges (often trumped up
or exaggerated) against Christians, and plead for tolerance, and especially
that Christians were being persecuted simply because of “the name,” they were
referred to - Christians.[2]
But more than that, apologetics were intent on proving that Christianity was a
legitimate religion and based it on the OT scriptures, it was not a new
religion or a novelty as they were being accused but rather “the original
religion of humanity.”[3]
Nonetheless,
Christians were accused of many things; the calamities thrust upon the pagans
of the Greco-Roman empire, obstinacy, and insubordination.[4] In addition to these they were accused of
atheism, cannibalism and incest. Of course these accusations were based on
misunderstandings and ignorance; their definition of atheism meant to not
observe the pagan practices of worship, their lack of understanding of the
Eucharist caused them to cry cannibalism, and the idea that Christians are
brothers and sisters in Christ led to the claim of incest.[5]
The most
significant apologist of this time was Justin Martyr. He responds to the
charges brought against Christians by expressing that they are moral, very moral
in fact not immoral as the pagans wrongly believed.[6] He
goes on to argue “from the antiquity of the Jewish Scriptures and the
fulfillment of their prophecies in Christianity.”[7]
Justin wanted to use the philosophy of the Greeks in conjunction with Christianity
to help the pagans understand and embrace this way of life. He would use the OT
to prove Christianity. [8] His heart was to reach the non-Christian, in
fact, the empire as a whole. Unlike Tatian, who desired to burn bridges says
Ferguson, Justin wanted to connect Jesus to his audience and help them see that
Christ was God come to save the world as the incarnate Christ.
Today the
apologetic principle of tolerance would serve our world well. It is interesting
to me how so many claim Christianity to be “intolerant” and yet we as a people
group are more despised than terrorist. Harsh, I know. It is sad how Christians
are discriminated against, singled out, and even sought out for persecution
because its core value is to believe in a God who desires everyone to love him,
worship him, and be with him so that he might bless his own with peace, love,
and joy.
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