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Œdipus, and such things as it is not allowed us to mention, or even to think of, no, nor to believe that they ever existed among mankind.
But when these things were noised abroad, all were infuriated against us; so that, even if any had before shewn moderation on account of connections, even these were greatly enraged, and stung with malice (Acts v. 33.) against us. And that was fulfilled which the Lord had foretold us (John xvi. 2.) "the time shall come, when every one, that killeth you, shall think that he doeth God service." Then afterwards the Holy Martyrs endured tortures beyond all description; Satan being ambitious of drawing some to blaspheme with their lips.
But most eminently did all the rage of the populace, the Governor, and the soldiers, light on Sanctus, a deacon of Vienne; and on Maturus, one newly enlightened, but a noble champion; and on Attains, a Pegamese by birth, who had always been "a pillar and support"[1] of those in this neighbourhood; and on Blandina, by whom Christ shewed that the things which are lowly esteemed among men, and held by them mean and contemptible, are thought worthy of great honour with God, for that love of Him, which is shewed forth in power, and does not boast in a vain appearance.
For when we all were in fear, and her own mistress according to the flesh, (who also herself was one champion among the Martyrs,) was in agony for her, lest she should be unable to make even one bold confession, from the weakness of her body; Blandina was filled with such strength, that even those, who tortured her by turns in every possible way, from morning till evening, were wearied and gave it up, themselves confessing that they were conquered, having nothing more that they could do to her. And they wondered at her remaining still alive, her whole body being mangled and pierced in every part; and declared, that any one kind of torture was enough to deprive her of life, not to say so many and so severe.
But that blessed woman, like a brave wrestler, renewed her strength in confessing; and it was to her recovery, and rest, and ease from her sufferings, to say "I am a Christian," and "Nothing vile is done amongst us."
- ↑ 1 Tim. iii. 15.
