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First Apology

work by Justin Martyr

Quick Summary

The First Apology is a significant work by Justin Martyr, an early Christian apologist. Written around 150 CE, it was addressed to Roman emperors Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius. In it, Justin defends Christians against accusations of atheism and disloyalty to the state. He argues that Christian philosophy aligns with reason and Greek philosophy, suggesting a shared pursuit of truth through the divine logos (reason/word). Justin posits that Jesus Christ is the embodiment of this logos, offering salvation and teaching divine truths. The First Apology also describes early Christian practices like baptism and the Eucharist.1

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