Justin Martyr's First Apology Analysis

Justin Martyr’s first apology is written to the Roman Emperor of the time, Titus Aelius as well as his son Verissimus the Philosopher and another, Lucius the Philosopher, son of Caesar. To clarify, this letter was not exclusively written to these three, but rather it was written as an open letter to Rome as well*. Thus, expanding the impact of Justin’s apology beyond the ears of a few power individuals who might suppress such a letter from the public. Justin’s intent with this letter was to receive a just hearing to prove that Christians are not harmful to the Roman Empire, but beneficial. During this time Christians were often prosecuted for their faith and false beliefs about their practices*. Justin looks to disprove such claims by explaining the real …show more content…
Justin wants the Romans to understand the falsity of their gods and the immoral nature of their worship practices. He does so by explaining the rash nature of what they do and even the immorality of the gods who they worship. Also, Justin questions the origins of the wisdom of the philosophers who the Romans hold to such high esteem. Additionally, he makes claims about wisdom from biblical prophets influencing the wisdom of Plato and his contemporaries. Justin is clearly proving that Christians are no harm to the Roman Empire, but in reality, because of their devotion to their God they benefit Rome. However, the competent way in which he does this is what deserves the most attention. Justin recognizes the ways in which he must appeal to the intellect of his original three recipients as well as that of Rome, in order to explain his position. Lastly, he approaches the fundamentals of worship in Rome and the contradictory nature in which they worship their gods. Justin writes to show the immoral worship practices of the Romans, establish the origins of the wisdom of many philosophers, and ultimately show the benevolence of Christians and their