Our Church Speaks Episode 21 - Polycarp of Smyrna
Feb 17, 2025
Explore the remarkable life of Polycarp of Smyrna, a direct disciple of the Apostle John. Discover his powerful epistle to the Philippians, aimed at comforting persecuted Christians. Delve into his steadfast faith during martyrdom, where miraculous events surrounded his death. The hosts discuss the significance of early church traditions and Polycarp's role in combating Gnosticism. Tune in for lessons of courage and God’s presence in times of hardship, inspired by this historical figure's unwavering trust in Christ.
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Episode notes
Direct Link To The Apostles
- Polycarp personally knew the Apostle John and belonged to the small group called the Apostolic Fathers who link the apostles to later church history.
- This link shows the New Testament's claims were passed through verified eyewitness networks, not myth.
Trust The Apostolic Chain
- To judge true teaching, consult the chain of those who sat at the apostles' feet rather than the latest self-proclaimed guru.
- Prefer the interpretation passed down through apostolic succession and early church practice.
Early Recognition Of Scripture
- Polycarp's Epistle to the Philippians quotes 17 New Testament books, showing early familiarity with the apostolic writings.
- This demonstrates the early church already regarded many apostolic letters as authoritative scripture.