Source edition
Tertullian. Quinti Septimii Florentis Tertulliani Quae Supersunt Omnia, Volume 1. Oehler, Franz, editor. Leipzig: Weigel, 1853.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This theological and ethical treatise addresses the critical question of whether Christians are permitted to flee or buy their way out of persecution. Writing in response to an inquiry from a brother named Fabius, the author argues that persecution is not a work of the devil but a beneficial trial ordained by God to test and purify the faithful. Consequently, fleeing from persecution is framed as a rejection of divine sovereignty. He refutes the biblical justification for flight, explaining that Christ's command to flee was a temporary instruction meant only for the Apostles under specific circumstances. The author also fiercely denounces the flight of church leaders and the practice of paying bribes to escape suffering, viewing such compromises as a denial of Christ's redemption. Ultimately, he exhorts believers to rely on the guidance of the Paraclete (Holy Spirit) and steadfastly endure suffering through martyrdom and confession of faith.