The Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians

This episode contains an epistle written by Polycarp to the church in Philippi, likely penned in some time in the middle of the second century. Its author, Polycarp, was a disciple of the Apostle John and Bishop of the church in Smyrna. As with the previous two epistles, Polycarp writes with a tone and style similar to the Biblical authors, providing a glimpse of how the faith entrusted to the apostles was handed down to the next generation.

This letter references the works of Paul, particularly the letter he wrote to the Philippians, showing that the early church circulated the writings of Paul. This text itself appears to have become a part of this collections of writings as well, as Polycarp’s disciple Irenæus and Eusebius’ church history both make reference to it.

If you would like to read more of the writings of the Early Christian Fathers, please visit ccel.org to view the full collection.