c. 90 – 155 AD

Polycarp of Smyrna

c. 69 – 155 AD

Smyrna, Turkey (modern Izmir)

Overview

Disciple of the Apostle John and teacher of Irenaeus. A living link between the Apostles and the 2nd century.

Martyred at 86; famously told the Roman Proconsul, "86 years have I served him, and he has done me no wrong."

His only surviving work.

The immediate successors to the Apostles, focused on survival, unity, and establishing authority.

4 Church Fathers in this era

Part of The Apostolic Fathers