c. 90 – 155 AD

Polycarp of Smyrna

c. 69 – 155 AD

Smyrna, Asia Minor (modern Izmir, Turkey)

Overview

Bishop of Smyrna, disciple of the apostolic age, and teacher of Irenaeus. In him the memory of the Apostles still felt close enough to touch.

At his martyrdom he is said to have told the Roman official, "Eighty-six years I have served him, and he has done me no wrong."

His only surviving work.

See what Polycarp of Smyrna wrote about Scripture. Open any book in the Bible reader and switch to the Commentary tab to find their insights.

The generation closest to the Apostles, writing to steady fragile churches, preserve unity, and hand on the faith they had received.

4 Church Fathers in this era

Part of The Apostolic Fathers