Apollonius lived in the second half of the first century. Philostratus wrote his biography of Apollonius in approximately 220 CE. Apollonius seems to have been some combination of philosopher and magician, although Philostratus shows distaste for the latter aspect of Apollonius' life. Comparisons between Apollonius and Jesus have been made many times, with the allegation that one is the imitator of the other (either in reality or through his biographers). These allegations go back to ancient times and prompted Eusebius to write a refutation Against Hierocles around 310 CE.
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Kirby, Peter. "Life of Apollonius of Tyana by Philostratus." Early Christian Writings. 2008. 11 May. 2008 <http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/philostratus.html>.