1
The proconsul said that if Polykarpos wished to explain his teaching, he should persuade the crowd.
2
Polykarpos answered that he would speak respectfully to the magistrate because believers were taught to honor rulers within what is lawful.
3
He would not, however, submit the matter to the judgment of a mob already demanding his death.
4
The distinction is clear: civil office can be addressed with respect without granting it authority over conscience.