Polycarp of Smyrna

Aged bishop of Smyrna; arrested in the Roman persecution; brought to the stadium and given the chance to revile Christ and go free; replies that he has served Him eighty-six years and He has never wronged him; burned alive, and when the fire would not consume him, killed by a dagger. Restoration path: Refuse the one act required to be released; speak the simple sentence that gives the rest meaning. Markers: aged and respected; given an easy escape; names the years of service; refuses to revile; killed when the fire would not — Polycarp of Smyrna, c. 69-155 AD (History)