Christian Martyrs

"AND OTHERS had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:)" -Hebrews 11:36-38

The following information is from WIKIPEDIA.COM...

A Christian martyr is one who, without seeking his own death or any harm to others, is murdered or put to death for his religious faith or convictions. Many Christian martyrs suffered cruel and torturous deaths like stoning, crucifixion, and burning at the stake. The word 'martyr' comes from the Greek word translated "witness". Martyrdom is a form of religious persecution.

The first Christian martyr was Saint Stephen as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles (6:8-8:3) who was stoned to death for his faith. Stephen was killed (i.e., martyred) for his support, belief and faith in Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah. There were probably many other early Christian martyrs besides Stephen since Saul, later-known as the Apostle Paul of Tarsus, is mentioned as bringing many murderous threats against the disciples or followers of Jesus (Acts 9:1ff.).

The first Christian Martyr in England was Saint Alban, a roman citizen, who lived in Verulamium and, when sheltering a Christian priest, converted to Christianity. When he refused to worship the Roman gods, he was executed. It is believed that the executioner's eyeballs fell out. Since then, Verulamium grew and changed its name to Saint Albans.

In subsequent centuries, especially during periods of widespread inquisition and Protestant Reformation, many Christians were martyred on charges of heresy.

There are many incredible stories, ancient and contemporary, of Christian martyrdom.

Contents

Early Christian martyrs

John the Evangelist was cooked in boiling hot oil but survived and died of old age circa 110 A.D.
 

2nd and 3rd century A.D.

Middle Ages Period, 5th century to 15th century

Reformation period, 16th century