Christian Profiles (Part 1): Polycarp and Christian Courage

This new series will take a look at profiles of a small number of Christians from history. Each profile will not, of course, be an exhaustive look at the believer. There is not time for that, but it will give a general overview of their life, highlight their contribution to the Church, and perhaps focus on something they teach us about the Christian life.

Today's profile will take a look at one of the early Church fathers: Polycarp.

Discussion or meditation questions:

1. What action did Polycarp often do in the story that seemed to help strengthen his courage?

2. Study 2 Co. 5:1-9. What does it show us about Christian courage? How could Paul say, “So, we are always of good courage”?

3. If true courage takes faith in God and hope for the future in Jesus, how do we develop courage in ourselves? What other Christian virtues do we need to cultivate to grow in courage?

4. Do you think Christians are persecuted today for their faith? How? Check out https://www.opendoorsusa.org/christia.... Pick a country, read about how they are persecuted, and pray for them as an individual or family.

For further reading, see Polycarp's Letter to the Philippians & His Martyrdom (https://www.amazon.com/Polycarps-Lett...) or Eusebius' Church History (https://www.amazon.com/Eusebius-Churc....