Letters of Ignatius 57

1I write to all the churches, and I want everyone to know that I willingly die for God—unless you hinder me. I urge you: do not show me kindness at the wrong time. Let me be given to the wild beasts, for through them I can reach God. I am God’s wheat, and I am ground by the teeth of wild beasts so that I may be found to be pure bread [of Christ].

2Instead, entice the wild beasts, so that they may become my grave and leave no part of my body behind. Then, when I have fallen asleep, I will not be a burden to anyone. I will truly be a disciple of Jesus Christ when the world does not even see my body. Plead with the Lord for me, so that through these instruments I may be found to be a sacrifice to God.

3I do not command you as Peter and Paul did. They were apostles; I am a convict. They were free, but I am a servant even to this hour. Yet if I suffer, then I will be a freedman of Jesus Christ, and I will rise free in him. Now, in my chains, I am learning to put away every desire.