I read the other day of a "scholar" who claimed that the number of ancient martyrs was probably very small and that we probably know the names of most of them. That just doesn't fit with what we know of opposition to the Gospel in our present day. Millions have been martyred for Christ within our lifetime. Is our era alone really so unique with the waves of persecution and the atrocities going on in so many places? I doubt it, because human nature doesn't change.
May the love of those whose blood is shed reach the hearts of those who bear it on their hands, for in Christ alone is forgiveness and reconciliation with God for life eternal.