Searching Through Ancient Philosophy
Born in Flavia Neapolis, Palestine, around AD 100, Justin Martyr embarked on a relentless quest for truth. He delved deeply into various philosophical schools, including Stoicism, Peripateticism, Pythagoreanism, and especially Platonism. However, each left him unfulfilled, yearning for something more profound.
The Philosopher's Conversion Encounter
In a defining moment by the sea near Ephesus, Justin encountered an elderly Christian who challenged his philosophical views. The old man directed Justin to the prophets and the Scriptures, emphasizing a wisdom that transcended human understanding. As Justin recounted, 'But straightway a flame was kindled in my soul; and a love of the prophets, and of those men who are friends of Christ, possessed me.' This encounter ignited a transformation, leading Justin to embrace Christianity as the 'true philosophy.'
Witnessing the courage of Christians facing martyrdom further solidified his newfound faith. Justin declared, 'If we are punished for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, we hope to be saved.' His conversion was not merely intellectual but deeply spiritual, as he attributed his yearning for truth to the work of Christ within him.
Defending the Christian Faith
With unwavering conviction, Justin dedicated his life to defending and explaining the Christian faith. He wrote several works, including his *First Apology* addressed to Emperor Antoninus Pius, where he articulated Christian beliefs and countered accusations against Christians. He boldly stated, 'Let it be understood that those who are not found living as He taught are not Christian - even though they profess with the lips the teaching of Christ.'
Martyrdom for Truth
Justin's journey culminated in his martyrdom around AD 165 in Rome, where he was beheaded with six companions. In the face of death, he proclaimed, 'That is our desire, to be tortured for Our Lord, Jesus Christ, and so to be saved, for that will give us salvation and firm confidence at the more terrible universal tribunal of Our Lord and Saviour.' Through his life and death, Justin gave glory to Jesus, whom he recognized as the source of truth and salvation.
