Lecture on the Apostolic Father Polycarp of Smyrna

Introduction to Apostolic Fathers

• Key figures: Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp of Smyrna.
• These figures teach doctrines that are foundational to Protestantism, suggesting the Reformation was a retrieval of early church teachings, not an innovation.

Polycarp’s Writings

• Only one surviving document by Polycarp: Letter to the Church in Philippi.
• Discusses Protestant doctrines extensively.
• Another important document: The Martyrdom of Polycarp (not written by him, but illustrates his teachings).

Key Doctrines in Polycarp’s Teachings

Unconditional Election

• Found in Polycarp’s letter to the Philippians.
• Saints are chosen by God not based on their works but by grace (aligns with Ephesians 2:8–9).
• Faith and repentance are gifts from God, not developed by human ability.

Salvation by Faith Alone (Sola Fide)

• Polycarp emphasizes salvation by grace, not by works (Philippians 1:3).
• Works are not the instrument of salvation, faith is.
• Objections addressed: good works are a result of saving faith, not contributors to justification.

Sola Scriptura

• Scriptures are the infallible authority for Christians, as seen in Polycarp’s writings.
• Polycarp highlights the sufficiency of Paul’s letters for building faith.

Two-Office Church Government

• Polycarp supports a Presbyterian model: mentions deacons and presbyters, not bishops.
• Possible alignment with Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch’s views.

Limited Atonement

• The martyrdom account suggests Christ suffered for the "whole world of those who are saved."
• Aligns with reformed understanding that Christ died for the elect across all nations.

Perseverance of the Saints

• Faith described as a secure root and down payment (Philippians 1:1, chapter 8).
• Assurance of perseverance is aligned with biblical passages like Ephesians 1:14.

Other Doctrines

• Amillennialism hinted through descriptions of Christ’s eternal reign (Martyrdom of Polycarp, Ch 21:1).
• Roman Catholic practices such as saint veneration are not supported by Polycarp’s writings.

Conclusion

• Polycarp’s teachings support key Protestant doctrines and debunk claims these are novelties of the Reformation.
• His teachings are consistent with apostolic and early church father doctrines, demonstrating continuity with biblical scripture.

These notes summarize the key points from a lecture on Polycarp’s contributions to early Christian doctrines that align with Protestant beliefs.