"Eighty and six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong." These were Polycarp's final words before martyrdom-words that still echo with strength, hope, and uncompromising devotion.
The bold voice of early Christianity-three foundational works by Justin Martyr in one accessible, powerful edition.
Justin Martyr: First Apology, Second Apology & Dialogue with Trypho brings together the complete trilogy of writings that defined one of Christianity's earliest defenders. A philosopher turned Christian, Justin wrote not only to defend the faith but to invite the empire-and the world-to see Christianity as the true philosophy.
In the First Apology, Justin speaks directly to the Roman emperor, defending Christians against false accusations of immorality, atheism, and disloyalty. He offers a compelling picture of Christian worship, ethics, and the rational foundation of faith.
The Second Apology continues this public defense, addressing instances of persecution and exposing the philosophical inconsistencies of Rome's critics. It is bolder, sharper, and filled with firsthand insights into the suffering and courage of the early Christian community.
In the Dialogue with Trypho, Justin recounts a spirited debate with a learned Jew named Trypho. This work is one of the earliest Christian engagements with Judaism, blending Scripture, philosophy, and theological reasoning to defend Jesus as the Messiah.
Inside This Volume, You'll Discover:
The full texts of Justin's First and Second Apologies and Dialogue with Trypho
Historical introductions to each work that frame the context of 2nd-century Christian life and theology
A vivid look at early Christian worship, ethics, and liturgy
One of the earliest examples of Jewish-Christian dialogue and theological debate
Powerful themes of reason, martyrdom, justice, and truth in the face of imperial power
Justin Martyr was a trailblazer for Christian apologetics-speaking to pagans, Jews, and emperors with courage, clarity, and conviction. These three works offer more than defense-they reveal a vision of faith that is both intellectual and transformative.
Ideal for students of early Christianity, theology, apologetics, or church history, this volume captures the spirit of a man who risked everything to speak truth to power.
Read the words that helped shape the faith-and continue to echo across centuries.
