First and Second Apologies of St. Justin Martyr

This text contains two works by Justin Martyr, "The First Apology" and "The Second Apology," addressed to the Roman Emperor and Senate. In these letters, Justin defends Christians from persecution and slander by presenting a reasoned explanation of their beliefs and practices. He argues that Christianity is the one true philosophy, that Christians are moral and loyal citizens who are unjustly punished, and that the truth of their faith is proven by fulfilled Hebrew prophecies.

A Plea for Justice and a Refutation of Charges

Justin begins his first letter by appealing to the Roman rulers' reputation for piety and philosophy, demanding a fair and rational investigation into the charges against Christians. He argues that it is unjust to condemn people based on a name alone, without proof of wrongdoing. He refutes the charge of "atheism," confessing that Christians are indeed atheists concerning the false, immoral gods of the pagans, but are devout worshippers of the one true, transcendent God, the Father of all virtues. To counter claims of immorality, Justin outlines the high ethical standards taught by Christ, emphasizing radical teachings on chastity, honesty, forgiveness of enemies, charity, and civil obedience. He contrasts this with the depraved myths of the Roman gods and common societal evils like the exposure of newborn infants, a practice Christians abhor as wicked.

The Proof from Prophecy and the Nature of Christian Worship

The core of Justin's argument rests on an extensive demonstration of fulfilled prophecy. He posits that Jesus is the Christ, whose life and purpose were foretold in great detail by the Hebrew prophets centuries before His birth. Justin provides a long list of prophecies concerning Christ's lineage, virgin birth in Bethlehem, miracles, suffering, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, arguing that their precise fulfillment is undeniable proof of Christianity's divine origin. He further claims that the myths of paganism are distorted and demonic imitations of these true prophecies, created to deceive mankind. To dispel rumors about secret, nefarious rituals, Justin provides a straightforward account of Christian worship. He describes the process of baptism as a regeneration and illumination for believers, and explains the Eucharist as a sacred meal where bread and wine become the flesh and blood of Christ, taken in remembrance of Him. He concludes by outlining the order of the weekly Sunday service, which includes readings from scripture, a sermon, communal prayer, and the Eucharist.

Renewed Defense in the Face of Injustice

"The Second Apology" is a shorter, more urgent response to the recent execution of several Christians in Rome under the city prefect Urbicus. Justin recounts the incident as an example of the unreasonable and passionate hatred directed at Christians. He contends that such persecutions are instigated by wicked demons—fallen angels who have always worked to punish and silence anyone who lives according to reason (the Logos), such as the philosopher Socrates in the past and now Christians. He explains that Christians do not kill themselves to escape persecution but face death fearlessly because they are confident in God's will and the promise of eternal life. Justin concludes by asserting the superiority of Christ, who is the full embodiment of the divine Word (Logos), over all human philosophies. He argues that while thinkers like Socrates and Plato possessed "seeds" of the Word and saw truth partially, Christians possess the complete truth through Christ Himself, and it is for this reason that they are especially hated and attacked by demonic forces.