Standing up to tyrants: Justin Martyr to Kate Forbes

The recent criticisms of Kate Forbes’ (see picture) personal faith and values have shone a spotlight on tolerance in contemporary society. Is it possible to run for high office, or any public service, if it requires us to conform to the values of modern secularism?

Christianity has often been persecuted and marginalised. Whether accidental misunderstanding or deliberate oppression, the church has been familiar with suffering. This is evident in the history of Christian witness and, over the next few months, I would like us to learn what we can from Christian apologists of the past.

These are the men and women who have sought to defend the Christian faith, often in times of great hostility. If nothing else, I hope this series will encourage us that the opposition and marginalisation we may experience today is nothing new. And, through all that turbulence, the Kingdom of God has continued to grow and bear fruit.