Ante-Nicene · c. 100 – c. 165
St. Justin Martyr
Samaria / Rome
Biography
Justin was a pagan philosopher who converted to Christianity after searching through the schools of Stoicism, Aristotelianism, and Platonism, eventually finding 'the only sure and useful philosophy' in the Christian faith. He opened a school in Rome, teaching philosophy in Christian terms while wearing his philosopher's cloak. He was beheaded under the prefect Rusticus after refusing to sacrifice to the gods, earning the title 'Martyr.'
Historical background
Writing his First Apology around AD 155 to Emperor Antoninus Pius, Justin gives the earliest detailed outsider-style description of a Christian Sunday liturgy, describing the readings, prayers, and the reception of the consecrated bread and wine as the actual body and blood of Jesus.
Major writings
First Apology
Defends Christianity to the emperor and describes baptism and the Eucharist in detail.
Dialogue with Trypho
A dialogue with a Jewish interlocutor defending the fulfillment of the Old Testament in Christ.
Important teachings
Justin teaches that the Eucharist is not common bread and drink but the flesh and blood of the incarnate Jesus, received only by the baptized who believe rightly. He also describes baptism as regeneration and illumination, necessary for entering the kingdom.
Quotations
“Not as common bread and common drink do we receive these; but... the food which is blessed by the prayer of His word... is the flesh and blood of that incarnated Jesus.”
“They then receive the washing with water... for, in the name of God the Father and Lord of the universe... and of the Holy Spirit... he who is illuminated is washed.”
“On the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place, and the memoirs of the apostles or the writings of the prophets are read.”