 This correlation would explain why the Apology heavily focused on punishment by fire; a reference to Polycarp’s burning at the stake.It is also generally believed that the "Second Apology" was originally part of the larger "First Apology", although there is uncertainty among scholars about this point.In the early chapters of the "First Apology", Justin discusses the principal criticisms of contemporary Christians; namely, atheism, immorality, and disloyalty to the Empire.