The early Christian martyrs were individuals who died for their faith during the first centuries of Christianity.

Key Early Martyrs

1. Stephen (c. AD 35):
   • The first Christian martyr (Acts 7).
   • Stoned to death for preaching about Jesus and accusing the Jewish leaders of resisting God’s will.
2. James the Apostle (c. AD 44):
   • One of Jesus’ twelve apostles, executed by King Herod Agrippa I (Acts 12:2).
3. Polycarp of Smyrna (c. AD 156):
   • A disciple of the Apostle John.
   • Burned at the stake for refusing to renounce Christ.
4. Perpetua and Felicity (c. AD 203):
   • Young women martyred in Carthage for refusing to renounce their faith.
   • Perpetua was a noblewoman, and Felicity, a slave, faced death in the arena with joy and courage.
5. Ignatius of Antioch (c. AD 108):
   • An early bishop of Antioch who was thrown to wild beasts in Rome.
   • He wrote letters to Christian communities urging them to remain faithful.
6. Justin Martyr (c. AD 165):
   • A philosopher turned Christian apologist.
   • Executed in Rome for refusing to sacrifice to pagan gods.
7. Lawrence of Rome (c. AD 258):
   • A deacon known for distributing church wealth to the poor.
   • Martyred by being roasted alive, reportedly saying, “Turn me over; I’m done on this side.”

Persecution Context:

1. Roman Persecution:
   • Christians were seen as subversive for refusing to worship the emperor or Roman gods.
   • Persecutions occurred sporadically, escalating under emperors like Nero, Domitian, and Diocletian.
2. Martyrdom as Witness:
   • The Greek word martys means “witness.” Early Christians saw martyrdom as a way to bear witness to their faith in Christ.

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