As the Acts of the Apostles draws to a close we can be left asking what happens next. Our studies in early church history begin with two disciples of the Apostle John. From the Revelation we know that John was imprisoned on the island of Patmos. But the ministry of the gospel continues in Antioch and Smyrna with Ignatius and Polycarp, two church leaders who had been discipled by John.

Ignatius came from Ephesus and became the bishop of Antioch. He led the church to take its stand against those who questioned the deity of Christ. There were those who were teaching that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ were figurative than actual. This questioned the gospel message. Ignatius took his stand and defended the truth of the gospel, a truth we stand on today.

Polycarp lived in Smyrna and led the church there into his 80s. Polycarp stands out in church history as the first Christmas to have their persecution documented. He showed grace to the end and would not recant his faith. He was burned at the stake, but his strong defence of the gospel has comforted and strengthen Christmas martyrs throughout the generations.

The Life of the Church - Learning our Church History is a teaching series from Annalong Presbyterian Church. For videos and handouts visit www.annalongpc.org/midweek.

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