Chapter 8. Justin by his colloquy is kindled with love to Christ

Chapter 8

1Justin: When he had spoken these and many other things, which there is no time for mentioning at present, he went away, bidding me attend to them; and I have not seen him since. But straightway a flame was kindled in my soul ; and a love of the prophets , and of those men who are friends of Christ , possessed me; and while revolving his words in my mind , I found this philosophy alone to be safe and profitable. Thus, and for this reason, I am a philosopher . Moreover, I would wish that all, making a resolution similar to my own, do not keep themselves away from the words of the Saviour. For they possess a terrible power in themselves, and are sufficient to inspire those who turn aside from the path of rectitude with awe; while the sweetest rest is afforded those who make a diligent practice of them. If, then, you have any concern for yourself, and if you are eagerly looking for salvation , and if you believe in God , you may— since you are not indifferent to the matter — become acquainted with the Christ of God , and, after being initiated, live a happy life.

2When I had said this, my beloved friends those who were with Trypho laughed; but Trypho just smiled and said:

3Trypho: I approve of your other remarks, and admire the eagerness with which you study divine things; but it were better for you still to abide in the philosophy of Plato , or of some other man, cultivating endurance, self-control, and moderation, rather than be deceived by false words, and follow the opinions of men of no reputation . For if you remain in that mode of philosophy , and live blamelessly, a hope of a better destiny were left to you; but when you have forsaken God , and reposed confidence in man, what safety still awaits you? If, then, you are willing to listen to me (for I have already considered you a friend), first be circumcised , then observe what ordinances have been enacted with respect to the Sabbath , and the feasts, and the new moons of God ; and, in a word, do all things which have been written in the law: and then perhaps you shall obtain mercy from God . But Christ — if He has indeed been born, and exists anywhere — is unknown, and does not even know Himself, and has no power until Elias come to anoint Him, and make Him manifest to all. And you, having accepted a groundless report, invent a Christ for yourselves, and for his sake are inconsiderately perishing.