2. The apologists Aristides was a Christian apologist who wrote an apology to Hadrian (emperor 117-138 ad). This Greek text was considered lost until J. R. Harris discovered a complete Syriac version in 1889 Aristides is sometimes reckoned among the apostolic fathers, but I would prefer to group him with the Christian apologists. Eusebius, History of the Church 4.3.1-3: And, when Trajan had ruled for twenty whole years minus six months, Aelius Hadrian succeeded to leadership. To him Quadratus addressed and gave a treatise, having composed an apology on behalf of our religion, since indeed some evil men were trying to trouble our own. And it is still extant among many of the brethren, and the writing is also with us, from which can be seen shining proof both of the understanding of the man and of his apostolic orthodoxy.

And he himself makes apparent his own antiquity through these things that he records in his own words: But the works of our savior were always present, for they were true. Those who were healed, those who rose from the dead, who not only looked as though healed and risen, but also were always present, not only while the savior was sojourning but even after he left, were around for enough time so as that some of them stayed even unto our own times.

Such was this man. And Aristides also, a faithful man and devoted to our religion, has left behind just as Quadratus an apology on behalf of the faith addressed to Hadrian. The writing of this man too is preserved hither by very many. Jerome says, Aristides, a most eloquent Athenian philosopher, and a disciple of Christ while yet retaining his original garb [as a philosopher], presented a work to Hadrian at the same time that Quadratus presented his. The work contained a systematic statement of our doctrine, that is, an apology for the Christians, which is still extant and is regarded by philologians as an index of his genius.

The Christians, then, trace the beginning of their religion from Jesus the Messiah; and he is named the Son of God Most High. And it is said that God came down from heaven, and from a Hebrew virgin assumed and clothed himself with flesh; and the Son of God lived in a daughter of man. This is taught in the gospel, as it is called, which a short time was preached among them; and you also if you will read therein, may perceive the power which belongs to it. This Jesus, then, was born of the race of the Hebrews; and he had twelve disciples in order that the purpose of his incarnation might in time be accomplished.

But he himself was pierced by the Jews, and he died and was buried; and they say that after three days he rose and ascended to heaven. Thereupon these twelve disciples went forth throughout the known parts of the world, and kept showing his greatness with all modesty and uprightness. And hence also those of the present day who believe that preaching are called Christians, and they are become famous.

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