The Didache: The Teaching of the Lord to the Gentiles through the Twelve Apostles.

by Charles Hoole

Publisher:

Wordsearch

, 1900

Overview

The Didache is, in all probability, the oldest surviving extant piece of non-canonical literature. It is not so much a letter as a handbook for new Christian converts, consisting of instructions derived directly from the teachings of Jesus. The Greek word didache means "teaching." The Didache is the short title of an ancient document that contains some very early Christian doctrines. Although a document of that name is referred to by several ancient writers, it apparently was lost. It was re-discovered in Constantinople in 1875, in a manuscript dated 1056 that also included several other documents either known or referred to as having been written before AD 150. The Didache claims to have been authored by the twelve apostles. While this is unlikely, the work could be a direct result of the first Apostolic Council, c.50 C.E. (Acts 15:28). Similarities to the Apostolic Decree are apparent, and the given structure of the church is quite primitive. Also, the description of the Eucharist carefully avoids mention of the "body and blood of Christ," obviously being regarded as one of the secret mysteries of eary Christianity. Most scholars agree that the work, in its earliest form, may have circulated as early as the 60's C.E., though additions and modifications may have taken place well into the third century. The work was never officially rejected by the Church, but was excluded from the canon for its lack of literary value.

Contents

Top Highlights

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done as in heaven so on earth. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debt, as we also forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil: for thine is the power, and the glory, for ever.” (source)

“But be ye gathered together frequently, seeking what is suitable for your souls; for the whole time of your faith shall profit you not, unless ye be found perfect in the last time.” (source)

“Let every one that cometh in the name of the Lord be received, but afterwards ye shall examine him and know his character, for ye have knowledge both of good and evil.” (source)

“thou shalt not kill a child by abortion, neither shalt thou slay it when born;” (source)

“Accept the things that happen to thee as good, knowing that without God nothing happens.” (source)

Product Details

• Title: The Didache: The Teaching of the Lord to the Gentiles through the Twelve Apostles.
• Author: Charles Hoole
• Publisher: Wordsearch
• Print Publication Date: 1900
• Logos Release Date: 2020
• Era: era:modern
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subjects: General Reference; Jesus › Teachings; Apostles › Teachings
• Resource ID: LLS:WS_3238436263F4453AAC1D303E45358016
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2021-08-31T22:33:51Z