The New Testament in the Apostolic Fathers

The New Testament in the Apostolic Fathers is a classic work in Biblical scholarship, treasured by generations of scholars since its initial publication in 1905. Prepared by a committee of Biblical scholars upon appointment of the Society of Historical Theology in Oxford, this volume presents passages from the Apostolic Fathers which display – or are thought to display – the Fathers' acquaintance with New Testament literature. These include passages from Barnabas, Didache, I Clement, Ignatius, Polycarp, Hermas, and II Clement.

Passages from each Apostolic Father with parallel in the New Testament are featured in Greek, accompanied by the supposed parallels. Analysis is then offered for each passage, as well as an occasional summary of that author’s knowledge of the New Testament. The parallels are each conferred grades – either A, B, C, or D – determined by the reliability of the Apostolic Father/New Testament intersection; an “A” grade signifying doubtless Biblical influence on the text, with a “D” indicating evidence “too uncertain to allow any reliance to be placed upon it”.

Over a hundred years after its initial publication, The New Testament in the Apostolic Fathers is still considered an important and helpful tool for Biblical scholarship.