Theology of Martyrdom

I will be doing a lot of research and reading on a theology of martyrdom, and the differences and similarities between martyrdom in the early Church and that of the Reformation era. I believe historically the Church presents an understanding of a Theology of Martyrdom, and many people and groups lived their faith with that foundation. I also believe there is a Biblical Theology of Martyrdom, i.e. a theology of martyrdom taught in the Scriptures.

In the sixteenth century, Menno Simons constructed his own theology of martyrdom, giving some concrete structure to the more implied theology of martyrdom the Anabaptists exercised up until that time. In the early Church we see such things as the Cult of Martyrs and even training sessions on how to be a true martyr. Depending on where you look and who you read, you can find an implied theology or a well structured doctrine.

This will be a fun endeavor for me. I am almost done reading John Piper's God is the Gospel. I will finish up the SCP articles and present a review, continue to translate Ignatius' letter to Smyrna, finish The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe with my wonderful wife, and write the next post on Layman's TULIP: Irresistable Grace.

Soli Deo Gloria!