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🎧 Dialogue with Trypho
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Chapter 8: Justin is Ignited with Love for Christ Through His Conversation.

"When he had spoken these and many other things, which we don't have time to mention now, he left, telling me to pay attention to them; and I haven't seen him since. But immediately a flame was kindled in my soul, and a love for the prophets and for those who are friends of Christ filled me. As I contemplated his words, I found this philosophy alone to be safe and beneficial. For this reason, I am a philosopher. Moreover, I wish that everyone, making a resolution similar to my own, does not keep themselves away from the words of the Saviour. They possess a powerful influence on their own, inspiring awe in those who stray from the path of righteousness, while offering the sweetest peace to those who practice them diligently. If, then, you have any concern for yourself, if you're seeking salvation, and if you believe in God, you may—since you do care about this—become acquainted with the Christ of God, and, after being initiated, live a happy life."

WHEN I HAD SAID THIS: my beloved friends who were with Trypho laughed; but he, smiling, said, “I approve of your other remarks and admire the eagerness with which you study divine things; but it would be better for you to continue in the philosophy of Plato, or some other man, cultivating endurance, self-control, and moderation, rather than be deceived by false words and follow the opinions of men of no reputation. For if you remain in that kind of philosophy and live blamelessly, the hope of a better destiny would be left to you; but when you have forsaken God and put your confidence in man, what safety still awaits you? If, then, you are willing to listen to me (for I already consider you a friend), first be circumcised, then observe what ordinances have been enacted with respect to the Sabbath, and the feasts, and the new moons of God; and, in short, do all things that have been written in the law: and then perhaps you shall obtain mercy from God. But Christ—if He has indeed been born, and exists anywhere—is unknown, and does not even know Himself, and has no power until Elias comes to anoint Him and make Him manifest to all. And you, having accepted a groundless report, invent a Christ for yourselves, and for His sake are carelessly perishing.”

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