Chapters
The Martyrdom of Ignatius
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Chapter 1: Ignatius's Desire for Martyrdom
WHEN TRAJAN RECENTLY BECAME THE EMPEROR OF THE ROMANS: Ignatius, a disciple of the apostle John and a man with all the qualities of an apostolic character, diligently led the Church of the Antiochians. He had narrowly survived the previous storms of numerous persecutions under Domitian. Like a skilled pilot, through prayer, fasting, earnest teaching, and constant spiritual labor, he resisted the challenges he faced, only fearing that he might lose those who were lacking in courage or were vulnerable due to their simplicity. Therefore, he rejoiced over the peaceful state of the Church when the persecution paused for a short time, but he felt personally troubled that he had not yet achieved a true love for Christ or reached the perfect status of a disciple. He reflected internally that the confession made through martyrdom would bring him into a closer relationship with the Lord. Thus, after spending a few more years with the Church and enlightening everyone's understanding with his interpretations of the Holy Scriptures like a divine lamp, he ultimately achieved the goal of his desire.