The First Apology
Chapter 2: Justice Required
Reason guides those who are truly pious and philosophical to honor and love only what is true, avoiding traditional opinions if they lack value. For not only does sound reason direct us to reject the guidance of those who did or taught anything wrong, but it is essential for the lover of truth to, by all means, and even if faced with death, choose to do and say what is right before their own life. Therefore, since you are called pious and philosophers, guardians of justice and lovers of learning, pay close attention and listen to my address; and if you truly are such, it will be evident. For we have come, not to flatter you with this writing or to please you with our address, but to request that you pass judgment after a thorough and in-depth investigation, not swayed by prejudice or a desire to please superstitious people, nor influenced by irrational impulses or harmful rumors that have long been widespread, to make a decision that will ultimately be against your own interests. As for us, we believe that no harm can come to us unless we are found guilty as wrongdoers or proven to be wicked men; and while you can kill us, you cannot truly harm us.