The Epistle to Diognetus
Anonymous
January 1, 1995
Although its authorship remains in doubt, "The Epistle to Diognetus" is undoubtedly one of the finest works of early Christian apologetics. It was written in the second or third century to Diognetus, who was either a prominent Roman or a creature of the author's imagination. In any case, the letter's practical intent was to serve as an apologetic to the educated classes of the Roman Empire. The letter, written when the Roman Empire was pagan, speaks to our day in two ways. First, it suggests that the Christian faith can prosper even in a hostile or indifferent regime—that is, even after Christendom. Second, it reminds Christians—especially those who lament their status as victims or outsiders—that the world is not our home and we should be prepared to endure persecution gracefully.—Ed. Christians in the world
For Christians are not distinguished from the rest of humanity by country, language, or custom. For nowhere do they live in cities of their own, nor do they speak some unusual dialect, nor do they practice an eccentric life-style. This teaching of theirs has not been discovered by the thought and reflection of ingenious men, nor do they promote any human doctrine, as some do. But while they live in both Greek and barbarian cities, as each one's lot was cast, and follow the local customs in dress and food and other aspects of life, at the same time they demonstrate the remarkable and admittedly unusual character of their own citizenship. They live in their own countries, but only as aliens; they participate in everything as citizens, and endure everything as foreigners. Every foreign country is their fatherland, and every fatherland is foreign. They marry like everyone else, and have children, but they do not expose their ...
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