Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians
According to the Eastern Orthodox perspective, the Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians is a canonical text written by the disciple of the Apostle John, Polycarp of Smyrna. It is valued as an authentic, early Christian work that contains vital teachings on righteousness, faith, and endurance. The epistle serves as both an exhortation to a virtuous life and a pastoral letter, warning against heresy and social disorder while encouraging perseverance and love within the church.
Key aspects
Authentic Apostolic teaching: The epistle is considered a genuine teaching from the Apostolic Fathers and a direct link to the teachings of the apostles.
Exhortation to virtue: It provides moral and spiritual guidance, exhorting believers to live righteous lives in imitation of Christ and to abstain from sins like covetousness and slander.
Warning against heresy and sin: The letter addresses the infiltration of heresy and sin into the church community, viewing outward behavior as a reflection of inner faith. It specifically warns against "proto-heresies" and a lack of discipline.
Pastoral concern: Polycarp expresses deep pastoral concern for the Philippian church, particularly regarding a corrupt bishop named Valens who was overcome by greed. He urges the church to restore him with love rather than ostracize him.
Encouragement in persecution: It encourages believers to endure hardship, drawing strength from the examples of Christ and other martyrs.
Contextual significance: The epistle also functions as a covering letter for the works of Ignatius of Antioch, which the Philippians had requested to receive.
Title - Thesis | Scroll | Short Description | Synthesis 2nd Temple | Antithesis | Synthesis Apostolic | Synthesis Amoraim | Continent Origin | Southern Worldview | Northern Worldview |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians | Scroll 114 | Apostolic Teaching | Fruitful of Smyrna | Epistolē pros Philippēsious | Martyrology | NA | Asia | Epistle | Epistle |
Category Reference Guide
Title/Thesis - The name of the book in American English
Synthesis 2nd Temple - The name of the book in order of its presentation other than the Apostles, ranging from 2nd temple Judaism up to the 1st century
Antithesis - The name of the book in another language
Synthesis Apostolic - The identity of the book in order of its presentation according to Tradition in the church after the 3rd century
Synthesis Amoraim - The name of the book in order of its presentation other than the Apostles, ranging from Tannaim up to the 5th century
Continent Origin - Continent from where the Text Type Source comes from
Southern Worldview - Catalog strategy for storing the scrolls include the interpretation. South means Africa or Egypt (Alexandrian) such as LXX. South of Palestine.
Northern Worldview - Catalog strategy for storing the scrolls include the interpretation. North means Asia or Persia (Babylonian) such as Masoretic. North of Palestine.
Here are additional resources for those who want to continue learning and exploring:
Link to some reference to a side by side translation of this epistle, "from which those that have a mind to do so may learn the character of his faith”