1 Clement 5 (c. 95-97 AD) — non-apologetic, community-memory reference to Peter and Paul both suffering and dying for their faith

1 Clement is an undisputed first-century document (some date it even earlier than 95-97 AD). The author draws on the martyrdoms of Peter and Paul not as apologetic argument but as common memory assumed by the audience to motivate patience and endurance. Peter is described as enduring "many labours" and at last delivering his testimony and departing to the place of glory. Paul is described as being cast into chains seven times, banished, stoned, preaching east and west to the extremity of the West (likely Rome), bearing witness before rulers, then departing. Mike notes Clement is not trying to prove these things happened — he assumes everyone already knows, which is actually stronger evidence.