Polycarp and Paul: An Analysis of Their Literary and Theological Relationship in Light of Polycarp’s Use of Biblical and Extra-Biblical Literature

This work addresses the question of the Apostle Paul’s literary and theological influences on Polycarp of Smyrna. It analyzes Polycarp’s dependence on earlier literature - both biblical and extra-biblical. This general analysis forms the basis for the study of three questions: Is Polycarp an imitator of Paul? Whom does Polycarp think is the author of the Pastoral Epistles? And, To what degree is Polycarp influenced by the theology of Paul? This work should be of interest to anyone studying the Apostolic Fathers, the reception of Paul in the second century, the concept of imitation, and the authorship of the Pastoral Epistles.