THURSDAY November 5, 2026

The Martyr, Polycarp

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.”
Revelation 12:11

Church history tells the stories of incredible men and women who have given their lives in service and sacrifice to God. Have you ever heard of a man named Polycarp? He was known as one of the early Apostolic Church Fathers who became the Bishop of Smyrna. It is believed he knew the Apostle John and wrote to the Philippian church. He mentored Irenaeus, a man who stood against Marcion and his heretical teachings.

Polycarp, an aged-old saint from the second century church, was arrested for his faith and threatened with death. He refused to recant, but what he said next has never been forgotten:

“Eighty-six years I have served Christ, and He has done me no wrong, how then can I blaspheme my King and my Savior? You threaten me with the fire that burns for an hour and then is quenched; but you know not of the fire of the judgment to come, and the fire of eternal punishment. Bring what you will.”

Polycarp was taken and tied to the stake, but before the executioner lit the fire, he prayed a prayer of thanksgiving,

“O Lord God almighty, Father of Your beloved and blessed Son Jesus Christ, through whom we have knowledge of You, God of angels and powers and all creation, and of the whole race of the righteous who live before you, I bless You that You considered me worthy of this day and hour, to receive a part in the number of the martyrs in the cup of Your Christ....”

The fire was lit, but it formed an arch around his body. The Romans then ordered the executioner to stab him. It has been said, his blood poured out and put out the flames of the fire. In the end, Polycarp bled to death. His martyrdom brought glory to the name of Jesus Christ.

There are so many other stories of Christians martyred for their faith. I encourage you to read Foxe’s Book of Martyrs; it is remarkable.

Princes, kings, and other rulers of the world have used all their strength and cunning against the Church, yet it continues to endure and hold its own.
~John Foxe~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!