Justin Martyr: Prophetic Revelation as the True Philosophy
 

Historical Background: Born around 100 A.D., Justin Martyr received a Greek education, which made him very interested in Greek philosophy. His interest in philosophy eventually led him to convert to Christianity and become one of the earliest post-Biblical apologists. After converting to Christianity, Justin Martyr pioneered Christian apologetics, writing First Apology, Second Apology, and Dialogue with Trypho.

Theological Context: Justin Martyr was surrounded by Greek philosophy and Roman religion. In seeking the truth through philosophy, he encountered the Hebrew prophets. He found these biblical figures to provide better answers for reality than the pagan philosophers and began to argue against the paganism of his day.

Apologetic Response and Methodology: Apologetic Response and Methodology: Justin Martyr had a two-edge approach, addressing both the Gentiles and the Jews equally. He often employed Greek philosophy in his apologetics. Justin spoke out against Christianity's persecution by writing about Christianity's virtues while arguing that accusations against Christianity were unfounded. He was primarily writing to Antonius Pius and the Roman senate. Justin showed the uniqueness of Christianity by comparing Christian religious practices with pagan religious practices. Additionally, he defended Christianity from people claiming that Christianity borrowed ideas from paganism. Justin Martyr’s main apologetic was based on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, especially in light of the cross.

Contribution to the Field of Apologetics: In his defense of the faith, Justin Martyr made a serious effort to understand his opponents and delineated philosophical arguments from Scriptural arguments.