Of the Seventh Persecution of the Christians

Martyrs Mirror in Modern English

Third Century

Of the Seventh Persecution of the Christians

OF THE SEVENTH PERSECUTION OF THE CHRISTIANS, UNDER DECIUS, BEGUN ABOUT THE YEAR 251

Sebastian Frank, P. J. Twisck, and Joh. Gysius place the beginning of this persecution under Decius in the year 251, while Abraham Mellinus and the author of the Introduction to the Martyrs' Mirror begin it with the year 253. This difference can easily be reconciled in this way: namely, that the decrees against the Christians were sent out and published about the year 251, but that they were not actually put in force until about the year 253. Compare Seb. Frank, and so on, folio 21, column 3, with P. J. Twisck, third book, page 67, column 2. Also, Joh. Gys., folio 19, column 2. Also, A. Mell., first book, folio 65, column 4. Also, Introduction, folio 40, column 1.