87. On my saying this, Trypho said: "From this on, do
which were operated by that demon, on coming to worship Christ appear to have been freed from that power which had exploited them, which the Word allegorically stated to dwell in Damascus.
It is appropriate that it should figuratively call that power Samaria because it is sinful and unholy.
But not even any of you can deny that Damascus was and is part of the land of Arabia, even if it is at the moment attached to Syrophoenicial.
So, my friends, it would be proper for you in a subject which you do not understand to learn from us Christians, who have received grace from God, and not to contend at every point that your doctrines must prevail,
_ and so dishonour the acts of God..."
[There follows a quotation of Isa. 29:13,14]?
87. On my saying this, Trypho said: "From this on, do not regard me as putting the questions which I ask in an attempt to refute your arguments but as desiring information on the subject about which I enquire.
[Then he quotes Isa.11:1-3.] I grant you (he said) that these words are spoken of Christ.
But you also say that he existed originally as God, and you say that he became incarnate according to the will of God and that he was born of the Virgin asa man.
Now how can his pre-existence be demonstrated if he is filled with the powers of the Holy Spirit, which the Word lists through Isaiah, as if he originally lacked these powers?"
I answered: "You have asked a very intelligent and understanding question.
It certainly does seem to be a difficulty.
But listen to what I say so as to know the solution of the matter.
The Word says that this list of powers of the Spirit 1This last clause is very odd, because there is evidence that Damascus was not added to Syrophoenicia until the reign of the Emperor
Septimius Severus (192-211 A.D.), long after Justin's martyrdom.
It is likely then that this clause was added very early in the history of the manuscript tradition by a scribe.
*Caps. 79-86 are omitted.