“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
Philippians 1:21
The first formal persecutions of Christians happened around AD 64 under Emperor Nero. When he blamed Christians for burning down much of Rome, many were slandered and lost their lives. For the next three centuries, followers of Christ would face extreme persecution.
Rome didn’t care about other religions, but they demanded that everyone acknowledge Caesar as a god. Because Christians refused do this, they were often rounded up for execution. Some were even sent to arenas to be eaten by animals before cheering crowds.
Ignatius was one of the earliest church leaders after the apostles died to be martyred for his faith. It was around AD 110. He was the Bishop of Antioch and was getting on in age when he was arrested for not worshiping the gods. On his way to Rome where he would be executed, he wrote letters to seven churches and encouraged their devotion to Christ. Though we don’t know exactly how he died, we do know he was looking forward to seeing Jesus face to face. His example helped many confront martyrdom with bravery and hope.
Rome didn’t care about other religions, but they demanded that everyone acknowledge Caesar as a god. Because Christians refused do this, they were often rounded up for execution. Some were even sent to arenas to be eaten by animals before cheering crowds.
Ignatius was one of the earliest church leaders after the apostles died to be martyred for his faith. It was around AD 110. He was the Bishop of Antioch and was getting on in age when he was arrested for not worshiping the gods. On his way to Rome where he would be executed, he wrote letters to seven churches and encouraged their devotion to Christ. Though we don’t know exactly how he died, we do know he was looking forward to seeing Jesus face to face. His example helped many confront martyrdom with bravery and hope.
Scripture Focus
Philippians 1:18-26
Insight
“Let fire and cross, flocks of beasts, broken bones, dismemberment … come upon me, so long as I attain to Jesus Christ.” (Ignatius, date unknown)
Bible In A Year
- 1 Kings 17-18
- Proverbs 8
- Hebrews 11
