February 23rd commemorates Polycarp, the faithful Bishop of Smyrna and a disciple of the Apostle John. His story is one of remarkable faithfulness, courage, and Christlike love—a testimony that has encouraged believers for nearly two millennia.
A Faith Rooted in the Apostles
Polycarp was born around 69 AD, the very early stages of Christendom. He had the rare privilege of learning directly from the Apostle John (author of the Gospel of John, three letters, and the Book of Revelation).
Polycarp was the Bishop of Smyrna (modern-day İzmir, Turkey), and was known for his unwavering devotion and firm stand against false teachings and heresy. His life was a bridge between the first generation of Christians and those who came after, helping preserve the integrity of the Gospel in an age of increasing opposition.
A Christlike Response to Persecution
The second-century Roman Empire had grown increasingly hostile toward Christianity. Everyone was required to acknowledge Caesar as a god (even, the “son of god”). Failing this requirement could lead to imprisonment or death. It was during this period that Polycarp was arrested for his faith.
His response to his arresters was nothing short of remarkable. Instead of resisting or attempting to flee, he welcomed the Roman soldiers into his home. Rather than treating them as enemies, he showed them hospitality, serving them food and drink. Then, before departing with them, he asked for time to pray. What was meant to be a short prayer stretched into two full hours, moving some of the soldiers to the point of regret for their role in his capture.
The Trial and Martyrdom
Brought before the Roman governor, Polycarp was given a simple choice: deny Christ and swear allegiance to Caesar, or face execution. His answer has echoed throughout history:
“Eighty and six years have I served Him, and He has never done me wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?”
No threats could shake him. The authorities warned that he would be burned alive, but Polycarp remained unmoved. According to historical accounts, when the fire was lit, something astonishing happened—the flames surrounded him but did not consume his body. Eyewitnesses described it as if he were glowing like refined gold, and many reported smelling a fragrance like incense rather than burning flesh. Finally, the governor ordered him executed with a sword.
A Legacy of Faith and Love
Polycarp’s martyrdom stands as a testament to courageous love in the face of monumental persecution. He embodied the love of Christ, even in the face of death. He did not curse his persecutors. He did not call for vengeance. Instead, he followed the example of Jesus, who said:
“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:27-28)
This is a hard command to follow, yet Polycarp’s life shows us that it is possible. His story reminds us that Christian love is not mere sentimentality but a radical choice to reflect the character of Christ, even when the world stands against us.
A Call to Stand Firm
Polycarp’s unwavering faith challenges us today. While most of us will not face persecution as he did, we are still called to stand firm in a world that often opposes the Gospel. His example asks us:
- Do we love our enemies as Christ commanded?
- Do we stand for truth, even when it costs us?
- Do we trust God’s justice instead of seeking revenge?
His life reminds us that following Christ means more than just believing—it means living in a way that reflects the heart of our Savior. May we, like Polycarp, stand firm in faith, love our enemies, and remain steadfast until the end.
“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” – Revelation 2:10