Early Church Fathers

Early Church Fathers The dialogue between Justin Martyr and Trypho Dr. Lance Adams and Dr. Larry Adams The dialogue between Justin Martyr and Trypho is an early Christian apologetic text, titled "Dialogue with Trypho", written by Justin Martyr around the mid-2nd century. It is a conversation between Justin, a Christian philosopher, and Trypho, a Jewish interlocutor, where they discuss issues such as the nature of Christ, the fulfillment of the Jewish law, and the relationship between Christianity and Judaism. In the Dialogue with Trypho, Justin Martyr asserts the universality of Christ’s mission, explaining that “He is the new law and the new covenant” that replaces the Mosaic law (Justin Martyr, Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 11). Trypho counters by questioning whether the Messiah should abolish the laws given to Moses, suggesting that adherence to the Torah is still mandatory for salvation. Justin responds by pointing to the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus Christ, stating, “By suffering for the sins of men, Christ brought a new covenant, not with words alone but by deeds” (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 32). Through this exchange, Justin emphasizes that the coming of Christ was prefigured in the Hebrew Scriptures, citing Isaiah 53 as evidence. Justin Martyr. Dialogue with Trypho. Translated by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. In The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 1, edited by Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson, and Arthur Cleveland Coxe. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1885. Below is a detailed excerpt and analysis of Justin Martyr's "Dialogue with Trypho", including more content and context for their discussion. This provides a richer exploration of their arguments and is tailored to your needs for both in-text and end-text references. The Dialogue with Trypho begins with Justin encountering Trypho, a Jewish philosopher, while walking in Ephesus. Trypho, impressed by Justin’s attire (a philosopher’s cloak), engages him in a conversation about his beliefs. Justin identifies himself as a Christian philosopher and describes how he was converted from Platonism to Christianity after encountering the teachings of Christ (Justin Martyr, Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 2). 1. The Nature of God and the Messiah Justin Martyr argues that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Jewish prophecies concerning the Messiah. He asserts: “The Scriptures explicitly show that Christ had to suffer, be crucified, and rise again on the third day, fulfilling the prophecies of Isaiah and the Psalms” (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 39). Trypho questions this interpretation, asking: “How could the Messiah, who is expected to bring peace and restore Israel, be subjected to such humiliation and death?” (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 49). Justin responds by explaining that the Messiah’s role as a suffering servant is outlined in Isaiah 53 and that Christ’s suffering was necessary for the salvation of humanity. He also emphasizes that the restoration of Israel is spiritual rather than political, extending to all nations through faith in Christ (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 113). 2. The Mosaic Law and the New Covenant Another key topic is the role of the Mosaic law in the new Christian covenant. Justin argues that the law was temporary and served to prepare humanity for Christ: “The law was a pedagogue to bring us to Christ, but now that faith has come, we are no longer under a pedagogue” (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 91). Trypho challenges this view, stating that the commandments, including circumcision and dietary laws, are eternal signs of the covenant between God and Israel. Justin counters by pointing to the universal nature of salvation through Christ, saying: “Circumcision is not needed for salvation; what God desires is a circumcision of the heart, as Moses and the prophets declared” (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 92). 3. The Role of Prophecy in Christianity The discussion frequently returns to the fulfillment of prophecy, which Justin sees as the strongest proof of Jesus’ messianic identity. He cites passages from Isaiah, Jeremiah, and the Psalms to show that the coming of a suffering and glorified Messiah was foretold: “The prophets do not contradict themselves; rather, they foretell both the suffering and the second glorious coming of the same Christ” (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 76). Trypho, however, interprets these texts as referring to the nation of Israel, not an individual Messiah. Justin rebuts this by analyzing specific passages (e.g., Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53) in detail to argue for their Christological significance. Analysis of Themes The dialogue is more than a debate between two religious traditions; it also highlights early Christian efforts to define their faith in relation to Judaism. Key themes include: Fulfillment of Prophecy: Justin’s emphasis on prophecy shows the continuity between the Hebrew Scriptures and the Christian Gospel. Christology: Justin presents a high Christology, portraying Jesus as both divine and the preexistent Logos. Universal Salvation: Justin argues that the Christian faith is open to all people, transcending the ethnic boundaries of Judaism. Law and Grace: The dialogue explores the tension between adherence to the Mosaic law and the new covenant of grace introduced by Christ. Justin Martyr. Dialogue with Trypho. Translated by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. In The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 1, edited by Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson, and Arthur Cleveland Coxe. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1885. Dialogue with Trypho. Trans. Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. The Ante-Nicene Fathers. Ed. Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson, and Arthur Cleveland Coxe, vol. 1, Eerdmans, 1885. Justin Martyr's "Dialogue with Trypho" would require a very large space, as the text consists of 142 chapters and spans a significant portion of early Christian literature. However, the text is in the public domain and widely available online. Public Domain Texts: The full text is available in collections such as The Ante-Nicene Fathers, translated by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. You can access it through resources like: Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL) New Advent Printed Editions: The Ante-Nicene Fathers series, available in libraries or for purchase, includes the full "Dialogue with Trypho." Justin Martyr's "Dialogue with Trypho" is quite extensive (142 chapters), Chapters 1–5: Introduction and Justin’s Conversion Chapter 1: Justin encounters Trypho, a Jew, in Ephesus. They exchange greetings, and Trypho asks Justin about his philosophy. Chapter 2: Justin narrates his journey from Platonic philosophy to Christianity, explaining how he found the teachings of Christ superior to Greek philosophy. Chapter 3: Justin emphasizes the role of the prophets in his conversion and the fulfillment of their words in Christ. Chapters 4–5: Trypho challenges Justin to demonstrate how Christianity supersedes Judaism and to explain its basis in the Hebrew Scriptures. Key Excerpt: "I found this philosophy alone to be safe and profitable. Therefore, I am now a philosopher in Christ." (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 2) Chapters 6–29: The Messiah and Fulfillment of the Law Chapters 6–7: Justin argues that Jesus is the Messiah foretold by the prophets. Trypho questions the Christian understanding of messianic prophecies. Chapters 8–10: Justin discusses the concept of the Logos and how Jesus, as the Logos, existed before creation. Chapters 11–14: Justin critiques the Jewish interpretation of the Mosaic Law and explains its fulfillment in Christ. Chapters 15–22: Justin examines specific prophecies from Isaiah, the Psalms, and Genesis to demonstrate Jesus’ divine mission. Chapters 23–29: The conversation delves into the nature of God, showing the harmony of the Father and the Son. Key Excerpt: "He is the new law and the new covenant, foretold by the prophets, and He calls all people to His eternal kingdom." (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 11) Chapters 30–47: Prophecy and Salvation for All Nations Chapters 30–34: Justin argues that the Messiah’s suffering and death were essential for humanity’s salvation, citing Isaiah 53. Chapters 35–40: Trypho questions why the Messiah did not establish earthly peace. Justin explains the spiritual nature of His kingdom. Chapters 41–47: Justin emphasizes that salvation through Christ is available to all nations, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham. Key Excerpt: "Through Him, all nations are blessed, as was promised to Abraham." (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 41) Chapters 48–85: Critique of Jewish Practices and the New Covenant Chapters 48–50: Justin critiques Jewish reliance on the Mosaic Law, explaining that its purpose was temporary. Chapters 51–57: The discussion focuses on circumcision and the Sabbath, with Justin asserting their symbolic fulfillment in Christ. Chapters 58–64: Justin defends the Christian interpretation of the Passover as a prefiguration of Christ’s sacrifice. Chapters 65–72: Trypho argues for the continued validity of the law, but Justin points to Jeremiah 31:31–34 to argue for the establishment of a new covenant. Chapters 73–85: Justin discusses the role of prophecy and how Christ’s mission is prefigured throughout the Old Testament. Key Excerpt: "The law was given because of the hardness of your hearts, but now, through Christ, we have a new covenant written not on tablets of stone but on the hearts of believers." (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 72) Chapters 86–108: The Role of the Gentiles in God’s Plan Chapters 86–90: Justin describes the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s salvific plan, referencing Isaiah and Malachi. Chapters 91–97: Justin contrasts the temporal sacrifices of the Mosaic Law with the eternal sacrifice of Christ. Chapters 98–108: The dialogue highlights the spiritual fulfillment of the promises made to Israel, extended to all believers. Key Excerpt: "The true Israel is not defined by the flesh but by faith in the promises of God." (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 95) Chapters 109–142: Christological and Eschatological Arguments Chapters 109–116: Justin discusses the second coming of Christ and the resurrection of the dead. Chapters 117–126: Trypho raises objections to Christian eschatology, which Justin answers using Daniel, Isaiah, and Ezekiel. Chapters 127–142: The dialogue concludes with Justin summarizing his arguments and exhorting Trypho to accept Jesus as the Messiah. Key Excerpt: "At His second coming, He will judge all humanity, and those who have trusted in Him will inherit eternal life." (Dialogue with Trypho, Chapter 131) Full-Text Access For the full text, you can read Justin Martyr’s "Dialogue with Trypho" in these public domain resources: Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL) New Advent - Dialogue with Trypho Chapters 1–5: Justin’s Introduction and Conversion Justin recounts his philosophical journey and conversion to Christianity. He meets Trypho, a Jew, and begins explaining his faith, starting with how Christ fulfills the promises of the Hebrew Scriptures. Chapter 1–2: Justin describes his dissatisfaction with Stoic and Platonic philosophy and his eventual encounter with a Christian who introduced him to the Hebrew prophets. He says: "Straightaway a flame was kindled in my soul; and I was seized with a love of the prophets, and of those men who are friends of Christ" (Dialogue with Trypho, 2). Biblical Reference: Justin connects his conversion to the Scriptures, particularly Isaiah 7:14 ("Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son...") and Psalm 22, which foreshadow Christ’s suffering. Chapters 3–5: Trypho challenges Justin to defend Christianity. Justin explains that Christ fulfills the Law and the Prophets and introduces the universality of salvation. Key Biblical Passages: Deuteronomy 18:15 – Justin argues that Jesus is the prophet like Moses. Isaiah 53 – Christ as the suffering servant. In-Text Example: Justin emphasizes that the Hebrew Scriptures point to Christ: "This Jesus, who is called the Son of God, fulfills the prophecy: 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me' (Deuteronomy 18:15)." (Dialogue with Trypho, 4). Chapters 6–29: The Messiah and Fulfillment of the Law Justin asserts that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Mosaic Law and the prophecies concerning the Messiah. Chapters 6–10: Justin argues for Christ's preexistence as the Logos (Word) of God, citing John 1:1–14 and the creation account in Genesis 1:26 ("Let us make man in our image"). Chapters 11–14: The Mosaic Law was a "type" of Christ and was intended to lead people to Him. "Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes" (Dialogue with Trypho, 13; cf. Romans 10:4). Chapters 15–22: Justin discusses prophecies in Isaiah 7:14, Micah 5:2, and Zechariah 9:9 as evidence of Jesus' divine mission. Chapters 23–29: The suffering Messiah is central to salvation. Justin refers to Psalm 22, describing Christ’s crucifixion. Key Biblical Passages: Isaiah 7:14 – The virgin birth. Micah 5:2 – Messiah's birthplace in Bethlehem. Psalm 22 – Details of the crucifixion. Justin states, "When Isaiah wrote, 'He was pierced for our transgressions' (Isaiah 53:5), he foretold the sufferings of Christ, which bring us life" (Dialogue with Trypho, 17). Chapters 30–47: Prophecy and Salvation for All Nations This section emphasizes the universality of salvation and the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham. Chapters 30–34: Justin highlights Isaiah's prophecy that the Messiah would bring light to the Gentiles (Isaiah 42:6; 49:6). Chapters 35–40: Trypho questions why the Messiah did not bring earthly peace, and Justin explains the spiritual nature of His kingdom. Chapters 41–47: Justin argues that through Christ, the promise to Abraham—that all nations would be blessed—is fulfilled (Genesis 12:3). Key Biblical Passages: Isaiah 49:6 – A light to the Gentiles. Genesis 12:3 – Blessing all nations through Abraham’s seed. Malachi 1:11 – God’s name exalted among all nations. "Through Him, all nations are blessed, as God promised to Abraham: 'In your seed all nations of the earth shall be blessed' (Genesis 12:3)." (Dialogue with Trypho, 43). Chapters 48–85: Critique of Jewish Practices and the New Covenant Justin contrasts the Mosaic Law with the new covenant in Christ. Chapters 48–50: Justin criticizes reliance on circumcision, citing Romans 2:29 ("Circumcision is a matter of the heart"). Chapters 51–57: The Sabbath is symbolic of Christ’s eternal rest, as referenced in Hebrews 4:9–10. Chapters 58–64: The Passover lamb is a type of Christ, fulfilling Exodus 12:46 ("Not a bone of it shall be broken"). Chapters 65–72: Justin cites Jeremiah 31:31–34 to argue for the new covenant. Chapters 73–85: Justin connects temple sacrifices to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice (Hebrews 10:1–10). "The law was given because of the hardness of your hearts, but now God has established a new covenant: 'I will put my law in their hearts' (Jeremiah 31:33)." (Dialogue with Trypho, 65). Chapters 86–108: The Role of the Gentiles in God’s Plan Justin explains that the inclusion of Gentiles fulfills prophecy. Chapters 86–90: Gentile worship fulfills Malachi 1:11: "From the rising of the sun to its setting, my name is great among the nations." Chapters 91–97: The eternal sacrifice of Christ replaces the temporal sacrifices of the law. Chapters 98–108: The spiritual promises to Israel extend to all believers, Jew and Gentile alike. Key Biblical Passages: Isaiah 56:7 – God’s house as a house of prayer for all nations. Malachi 1:11 – God’s name exalted among the Gentiles. Chapters 109–142: Christological and Eschatological Arguments The dialogue concludes with eschatological discussions and a final appeal to Trypho. Chapters 109–116: Justin describes the second coming of Christ and the resurrection of the dead, citing Daniel 7:13. Chapters 117–126: Trypho questions Christian eschatology. Justin explains the eternal kingdom of God. Chapters 127–142: Justin summarizes his case, urging Trypho to accept Christ. Key Excerpt: "At His second coming, He will judge all humanity, and those who have trusted in Him will inherit eternal life" (Dialogue with Trypho, 131; cf. Revelation 20:11–15). Text References Justin Martyr. Dialogue with Trypho. Translated by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. In The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 1. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1885. The Bible. English Standard Version (ESV). A deeper exploration of Chapters 109–142 of Justin Martyr's Dialogue with Trypho, focusing on the Christological and eschatological arguments and providing corresponding biblical references from the King James Version (KJV). Overview of Chapters 109–142 In this final section, Justin delves into key doctrines about Christ's second coming, the resurrection of the dead, and the eternal kingdom of God. He engages Trypho's objections, offering evidence from Scripture that Jesus is both the promised Messiah and the eschatological Judge. Chapters 109–116: The Second Coming of Christ and Resurrection Justin explains that Christ’s second coming will establish His eternal kingdom. He contrasts this with His first coming, marked by humility and suffering. The Nature of the Second Coming: Justin quotes Daniel 7:13–14, emphasizing the Messianic figure: "I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven..." Justin explains that this "Son of Man" is Christ, who will return in glory to judge the world. KJV Reference: "Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him..." (Revelation 1:7). Resurrection of the Dead: Justin refers to Isaiah 26:19 ("Thy dead men shall live..."), arguing that the resurrection is both physical and spiritual. He ties this to Christ's own resurrection as a guarantee of believers' future resurrection. KJV Reference: "For the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible..." (1 Corinthians 15:52). Chapters 117–126: Objections to Christian Eschatology Trypho challenges the idea of resurrection and the eternal kingdom, questioning why God does not immediately restore Israel. Justin responds with these key points: Restoration of Israel: Justin explains that the promises to Israel are fulfilled in Christ and extended to the spiritual Israel, which includes both Jews and Gentiles. KJV Reference: "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29). The Eternal Kingdom: Justin argues that Christ’s kingdom is spiritual and eternal, not earthly or temporal. He cites Psalm 110:1: "The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool." KJV Reference: "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world..." (John 18:36). Chapters 127–133: Eschatological Prophecies Justin discusses specific prophecies concerning Christ’s return and judgment, using the following: Judgment of the Nations: Justin references Isaiah 2:2–4, where all nations gather before God for judgment. He connects this to Christ's second coming as described in Matthew 25:31–34. KJV Reference: "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory." (Matthew 25:31). The Role of the Messiah: Justin interprets Zechariah 12:10 as a prophecy of Christ’s crucifixion and its eschatological significance: "And they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him..." KJV Reference: "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son." (John 5:22). Chapters 134–142: Final Exhortation Justin concludes by urging Trypho to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and accept the promise of eternal life. He reiterates the following themes: Salvation through Christ Alone: Justin cites Isaiah 53, emphasizing the suffering servant who bore humanity's sins. KJV Reference: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him..." (Isaiah 53:5). Eternal Life in Christ: Justin assures Trypho that those who believe in Christ will inherit eternal life. He references Daniel 12:2, which describes the resurrection to everlasting life or shame. KJV Reference: "And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal." (Matthew 25:46). The Urgency of Faith: Justin implores Trypho to turn to Christ without delay, warning of the coming judgment as foretold in Joel 2:1–2. KJV Reference: "The great day of the LORD is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly..." (Zephaniah 1:14). Key Themes of the Section Christology: Jesus is the "Son of Man" who fulfills Messianic prophecies, inaugurates the kingdom of God, and will return to judge the living and the dead. Resurrection: The bodily resurrection of believers is central to Christian hope. Judgment and Eternal Kingdom: Christ’s second coming will establish His eternal reign and judge all nations. Inclusion of Gentiles: God’s plan of salvation extends to all who believe in Christ, not just ethnic Israel. Text Example with KJV References Justin states, "The Son of Man comes with the clouds of heaven, as Daniel prophesied (Daniel 7:13). His kingdom is eternal, and He will judge the nations, as Isaiah declared (Isaiah 2:4)." (Dialogue with Trypho, 131). He continues: "The resurrection of the dead is assured by Christ’s own rising, fulfilling the Scripture: 'Thy dead men shall live' (Isaiah 26:19). Those who are in Christ shall inherit eternal life (Matthew 25:46)." Conclusion In Chapters 109–142, Justin provides a robust defense of Christian eschatology, addressing both Christ's role as the eternal Judge and the promise of resurrection and eternal life. His arguments are rooted in Old Testament prophecies fulfilled in the New Testament, as interpreted through the lens of early Christian theology. Chapters 109–142 of Justin Martyr's Dialogue with Trypho, integrating robust content with biblical references from the KJV Bible to enhance the Christological and eschatological arguments. Overview of Chapters 109–142 In this concluding section, Justin presents an apologetic masterpiece, systematically defending the Christian view of Christ as the Messiah and Judge while addressing eschatological themes like the resurrection of the dead and the eternal kingdom of God. He asserts that the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies and the hope of eternal life are grounded in Scripture. Justin’s arguments emphasize that these themes are not only spiritual truths but are also realized in Jesus Christ, whose second coming will consummate God’s redemptive plan. Chapters 109–116: The Second Coming of Christ and the Resurrection The Nature of Christ’s Second Coming Justin contrasts Christ’s first coming, characterized by humility and suffering, with His second coming, which will be marked by power and glory. He uses Daniel 7:13–14 to highlight the divine authority of Christ: "I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven..." Justin interprets this as a direct prophecy of Jesus, who will return to establish an eternal kingdom. KJV Cross-Reference: "Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him." (Revelation 1:7) The Resurrection of the Dead Justin asserts that the resurrection is both spiritual and physical, as evidenced by Isaiah 26:19: "Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust..." He ties this prophecy to Christ's own resurrection, which guarantees the resurrection of believers. This promise fulfills God’s ultimate plan for humanity's redemption. KJV Cross-Reference: "For the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed." (1 Corinthians 15:52) Chapters 117–126: Objections to Christian Eschatology Restoration of Israel Trypho questions why God does not immediately restore Israel, as promised in the Scriptures. Justin responds that the promises to Israel are fulfilled in Christ and extend to spiritual Israel—both Jews and Gentiles who believe in Him. Justin references Genesis 12:3 to affirm the inclusion of all nations in Abraham's blessings: "And in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed." KJV Cross-Reference: "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29) The Eternal Kingdom Justin rejects the idea of an earthly kingdom and emphasizes the spiritual and eternal reign of Christ. He cites Psalm 110:1 as evidence of Christ's enthronement: "The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool." KJV Cross-Reference: "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight." (John 18:36) Chapters 127–133: Eschatological Prophecies Judgment of the Nations Justin identifies Christ as the Judge of all nations, connecting Isaiah 2:2–4 and Matthew 25:31–34. He emphasizes the universal scope of Christ’s authority: "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory." KJV Cross-Reference: "And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people..." (Isaiah 2:4) The Role of the Messiah Justin interprets Zechariah 12:10 as a dual prophecy of Christ’s crucifixion and His ultimate return to rule: "And they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son." KJV Cross-Reference: "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son." (John 5:22) Chapters 134–142: Final Exhortation Salvation through Christ Alone Justin urges Trypho to embrace Christ as the suffering servant prophesied in Isaiah 53: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." KJV Cross-Reference: "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12) Eternal Life in Christ Justin reminds Trypho of the promise of eternal life, referencing Daniel 12:2, which foretells the resurrection: "And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt." KJV Cross-Reference: "And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal." (Matthew 25:46) The Urgency of Faith Justin warns Trypho about the coming judgment as described in Joel 2:1–2: "Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain... for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand." KJV Cross-Reference: "The great day of the LORD is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly..." (Zephaniah 1:14) Key Themes of the Section Christology: Justin identifies Jesus as the "Son of Man" prophesied in Daniel, fulfilling the Old Testament promises and destined to return as Judge and King. Resurrection: The bodily resurrection is foundational to Christian eschatology, exemplified by Christ’s own rising from the dead. Judgment and Eternal Kingdom: Christ’s second coming will usher in an eternal reign, separating the righteous and the wicked. Inclusion of Gentiles: The promises made to Israel are fulfilled in Christ and extend to all who believe in Him, forming the spiritual Israel. Chapters 109–142 of Justin Martyr's Dialogue with Trypho, incorporating references to Early Church Fathers to enhance the Christological and eschatological arguments. Expanded Overview of Chapters 109–142 Justin concludes his dialogue by articulating critical doctrines regarding Christ's second coming, the resurrection of the dead, the establishment of the eternal kingdom, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. These arguments are supplemented with insights from Early Church Fathers, showing consistency in early Christian thought. Chapters 109–116: The Second Coming of Christ and the Resurrection The Nature of Christ’s Second Coming Justin’s interpretation of Daniel 7:13–14 as referring to Christ’s return is echoed by other Early Church Fathers: Irenaeus of Lyons, in Against Heresies (Book V, Chapter 31), describes the "Son of Man" as Jesus, returning in glory to establish God’s kingdom: "When He comes, it will not be as the suffering servant but as the King of Righteousness, gathering His elect and executing judgment." KJV Reference: "Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him..." (Revelation 1:7). The Resurrection of the Dead Justin connects Isaiah 26:19 to the bodily resurrection, a theme also affirmed by Tertullian in On the Resurrection of the Flesh (Chapter 3): "The resurrection of the dead is the crowning proof of our faith, for Christ's resurrection is the guarantee that we too shall rise." KJV Reference: "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him." (1 Thessalonians 4:14). Chapters 117–126: Objections to Christian Eschatology Restoration of Israel Justin’s argument that Christ fulfills the promises to Israel is echoed by Origen in Contra Celsum (Book II, Chapter 78): "The Church is the new Israel, composed of those who follow the Messiah, fulfilling the covenant given to Abraham." KJV Reference: "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29). The Eternal Kingdom Justin’s reliance on Psalm 110:1 to explain Christ’s spiritual reign parallels Clement of Alexandria in Stromata (Book VII, Chapter 10): "The kingdom of Christ is not earthly or temporal but eternal, encompassing all who believe in Him." KJV Reference: "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world." (John 18:36). Chapters 127–133: Eschatological Prophecies Judgment of the Nations Justin’s use of Isaiah 2:2–4 to describe the judgment of nations aligns with Cyprian of Carthage in On the Unity of the Church (Chapter 25): "Christ will judge the living and the dead, gathering His people into one fold under His eternal dominion." KJV Reference: "When the Son of man shall come in his glory... then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory." (Matthew 25:31). The Role of the Messiah Justin’s interpretation of Zechariah 12:10 as a Messianic prophecy is supported by Hippolytus in On Christ and Antichrist (Chapter 67): "The pierced One is the Messiah, who in His suffering opened the way for salvation and in His return will bring justice to the earth." KJV Reference: "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son." (John 5:22). Chapters 134–142: Final Exhortation Salvation through Christ Alone Justin’s reliance on Isaiah 53 to present Christ as the suffering servant is also championed by Athanasius in On the Incarnation (Chapter 25): "The wounds He bore were for our healing, and His death secured life for all who believe." KJV Reference: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities..." (Isaiah 53:5). Eternal Life in Christ Justin’s emphasis on the promise of eternal life aligns with Augustine in The City of God (Book XXII, Chapter 30): "The resurrection to everlasting life is the ultimate hope of the believer, assured by Christ’s victory over death." KJV Reference: "And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal." (Matthew 25:46). The Urgency of Faith Justin’s warning about the Day of the Lord mirrors John Chrysostom in Homily on Matthew (Homily 43): "The Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night; therefore, repentance is the urgent call to all humanity." KJV Reference: "The great day of the LORD is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly..." (Zephaniah 1:14). Key Themes and Contributions of the Early Church Fathers Christology: The Early Church Fathers, like Justin, assert that Jesus fulfills the Messianic prophecies as the Son of Man and the Judge of all nations. Resurrection: Tertullian and Augustine affirm Justin’s teaching on the bodily resurrection, rooting it in Christ’s victory over death. Eternal Kingdom: Clement and Cyprian support Justin’s interpretation of Christ’s spiritual reign, contrasting it with earthly dominion. Universal Salvation: Origen and Irenaeus reinforce the inclusion of Gentiles as part of God’s covenant promises. Urgency of Faith: Chrysostom and others stress the immediacy of repentance and the importance of recognizing Christ’s role as Judge and Savior. "Early Church Fathers: The Theological Encounter Between Justin Martyr and Trypho" Dr. Lance Adams and Dr. Larry Adams Page 16 | 1