Here's a new twist on the martyrdom scenario. Before the story unfolds, I want to stress that Acacius is listed as a martyr.
Like many, many other martyrs, he was busted for his Christianity during the reign of Decius. Being a fair-minded people, the Romans threw the poor bishop in jail and tortured him brutally in hopes of saving his wretched life.
Acacius had been a good choice for bishop of Melitene -- he stuck by his faith through all the tribulations in prison. Then, when called to trial, he gave such a compelling account of Christianity that he was released. Mind you, he didn't win converts in prison, but they respected his eloquence and let him walk.
Moreover, he was judged a martyr, even though he walked out with his life. Now that's a consummation devoutly to be wished.
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