Aesculapius was the Roman god of medicine and healing.
They bring forward Aesculapius as another god. They say that he is a physician and that he prepares drugs and plasters in order to maintain his livelihood. In other words, this god is in need! Eventually, he was struck with lightning by Dios, . . . and he died. If, then, Aesculapius was a god, how can he possibly give help to others? After all, when he was struck with lightning, he was unable to help himself. Aristides (c. 125, E), 9.271.
Although Aesculapius was a great physician, he was struck by a thunderbolt and ascended to heaven. Justin Martyr (c. 160, E), 1.170.
When the devil brings forth Aesculapius as the raiser of the dead and healer of all diseases, may I not say that in this matter also he has imitated the prophecies about Christ? Justin Martyr (c. 160, E), 1.233.
What action worthy of divine honors did Aesculapius perform—other than his healing of Hippolytus? Furthermore, his birth was not without disgrace to Apollo. His death was certainly more famous, for he earned the distinction of being struck with lightning by a god. Lactantius (c. 304–313, W), 7.19.
Even after his punishment and his death by lightning, have you not named Aesculapius the discoverer of medicines and as the guardian and protector of health, strength, and safety? Arnobius (c. 305, E), 6.424.
Aesculapius presides over the duties and arts of medicine. So why cannot more persons with various kinds of diseases and sickness be restored to health and soundness of body? Arnobius (c. 305, E), 6.470.