Antipas, the Faithful Witness of Jesus Christ

Antipas was an upright man and a pious witness of the Son of God, who, in proof of his faith, tasted death rather than dishonor his Savior by denying Him or in any other way. This happened in the lifetime of the apostle John. So he may be counted one of the first of those who suffered, during the time of Domitian, for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

The Lord Himself mentioned this hero and knight of God to His servant John; indeed, He commanded him to write to the teacher at Pergamos concerning him, saying: "To the angel of the church in Pergamos write: These things says he who has the sharp sword with two edges: I know your works, and where you dwell, even where Satan's seat is; and you hold fast my name, and have not denied my faith, even in those days when Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwells" (Revelation 2, verses 12 to 14).

As to the time and manner of his death, nothing is stated in Holy Writ; but some of the ancient writers maintain that he was enclosed in a red hot brazen ox, and so burned alive with great pain, yet in steadfastness. As for the time when this happened, we learn from Holy Scripture that he was killed in the lifetime of John. Some place this event in the time of Domitian, about the year 95. On this, see A. Mell., First Book, van de Hist. der Vervolg. en Martel., printed in the year 1619, folio 22, column 1. [n123-2] Also, d' Annotation der Laetste Bybelsch Oversettinge, Revelation 2, verses 12 and 13.